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UNITED STATESSECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549______________________
FORM 10-K
☒☒ Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of theSecurities Exchange Act of 1934
For the Year Ended December 31, 2019
☐☐ Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of theSecurities Exchange Act of 1934
Commission File Number: 814-00899
______________________
BLACKROCK TCP CAPITAL CORP.(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
______________________
Delaware 56-2594706(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation) (IRS Employer Identification No.)
2951 28th Street, Suite 1000 Santa Monica, California 90405
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
(310) 566-1000
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share TCPC NASDAQ Global Select Market(Title of each class) (Trading Symbol(s) ) (Name of each exchange where registered)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None______________________
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act: Yes x No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934during the preceding 12 months and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days: Yes x No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data Filerequired to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant wasrequired to submit and post such files). Yes ¨ No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filerand large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer x Accelerated filer ¨Non-accelerated filer ¨ Smaller Reporting company ¨
Emerging growth company ¨ If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with a new or
revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).Yes ¨ No x The aggregate market value of the Registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant at June 30, 2019 (the last business day of the
Registrant’s most recently completed second quarter) was $837.4 million based upon the last sales price reported for such date on The NASDAQ Global SelectMarket. For purposes of this disclosure, shares of common stock beneficially owned by executive officers and directors of the Registrant and members of theirfamilies have been excluded in that such persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily conclusive for otherpurposes. The Registrant has no non-voting common stock.
The number of shares of the Registrant’s common stock, $0.001 par value, outstanding as of February 25, 2020 was 58,766,426.
Documents Incorporated by Reference: Portions of the Registrant’s Proxy Statement relating to the Registrant’s 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders tobe filed not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K are incorporated by reference into Part III of thisReport.
BLACKROCK TCP CAPITAL CORP.
FORM 10-K
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PagePART I
Item 1. Business 2Item 1A. Risk Factors 24Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments 52Item 2. Properties 52Item 3. Legal Proceedings 52Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 52
PART IIItem 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 53Item 6. Selected Financial Data 56Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations 57Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk 74Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 75Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
Financial Disclosure 133Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 133Item 9B. Other Information 133
PART IIIItem 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 134Item 11. Executive Compensation 134Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 134Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 134Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 134
PART IVItem 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 134 Signatures 137
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Part I
In this annual report in Form 10-K, except as otherwise indicated, the terms:
“Company,” "we," "us" and "our" refer to Special Value Continuation Fund, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, for the periods prior to theconsummation of the Conversion described elsewhere in this report and to BlackRock TCP Capital Corp., formerly known as TCP Capital Corp., for the periodsafter the consummation of the Conversion;
“SVCP” refers to Special Value Continuation Partners LLC, a Delaware limited liability company;
“TCPC Funding” refers to TCPC Funding I LLC, a Delaware limited liability company;
The “SBIC” refers to TCPC SBIC, LP, a Delaware limited partnership;
The “Advisor” refers to Tennenbaum Capital Partners, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and the investment manager; and
“Administrator” refers to Series H of SVOF/MM, LLC, a series of a Delaware limited liability company, an affiliate of the Advisor and administrator of theCompany.
Item 1. Business
The Company is a Delaware corporation formed on April 2, 2012 and is an externally managed, closed-end, non-diversified management investmentcompany. We have elected to be regulated as a business development company (“BDC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940Act”). Our investment objective is to achieve high total returns through current income and capital appreciation, with an emphasis on principal protection. We seekto achieve our investment objective primarily through investments in debt securities of middle-market companies, which we typically define as those withenterprise values between $100 million and $1.5 billion. While we intend to primarily focus on privately negotiated investments in debt of middle-marketcompanies, we may make investments of all kinds and at all levels of the capital structure, including in equity interests such as preferred or common stock andwarrants or options received in connection with our debt investments. Our investment activities will benefit from what we believe are the competitive advantagesof our Advisor, including its diverse in-house skills, proprietary deal flow, and consistent and rigorous investment process focused on established, middle-marketcompanies. We expect to generate returns through a combination of the receipt of contractual interest payments on debt investments and origination and similarfees, and, to a lesser extent, equity appreciation through options, warrants, conversion rights or direct equity investments.
Investment operations are conducted through the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries, SVCP, TCPC Funding and the SBIC. SVCP was organized as alimited partnership and had elected to be regulated as a BDC under the 1940 Act through July 31, 2018. On August 1, 2018, SVCP withdrew its election to beregulated as a BDC under the 1940 Act and withdrew the registration of its common limited partner interests under Section 12(g) of the Securities Exchange Act of1934 and, on August 2, 2018, terminated its general partner, Series H of SVOF/MM, LLC, and converted to a Delaware limited liability company. The managingmember of SVOF/MM is Tennenbaum Capital Partners, LLC (the “Advisor”), which serves as the investment manager to the Company, TCPC Funding, and theSBIC. On August 1, 2018, the Advisor merged with and into a wholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock Capital Investment Advisors, LLC, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc. with the Advisor as the surviving entity. BlackRock, Inc., along with its subsidiaries is referred to herein as “BlackRock”.
The Company has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a RIC, we will not be taxed onour income to the extent that we distribute such income each year and satisfy other applicable income tax requirements. SVCP was treated as a partnership for U.S.federal income tax purposes through August 1, 2018, and upon its conversion to a limited liability company on August 2, 2018 and thereafter is and will be treatedas a disregarded entity.
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On April 2, 2012, the Company converted from a limited liability company to a corporation (the “Conversion”). At the time of the Conversion, all limitedliability company interests of Special Value Continuation Fund, LLC (“SVCF”) were exchanged for 15,725,635 shares of common stock in the Company. As aresult of the Conversion, the books and records of SVCF became the books and records of the Company.
On April 3, 2012, the Company priced its initial public offering (the “Offering”), selling 5,750,000 shares of its common stock at a public offering price of$14.75 per share.
To qualify as a RIC, we must, among other things, meet certain source-of-income and asset diversification requirements and timely distribute to ourstockholders generally at least 90% of our investment company taxable income, as defined by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), foreach year. Pursuant to this election, we generally will not have to pay corporate level taxes on any income that we distribute to our stockholders provided that wesatisfy those requirements.
The Advisor
Our investment activities are managed by the Advisor. The Advisor is a Delaware limited liability company and is registered as an investment advisor underthe Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The Advisor is a wholly-owned, indirect subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc. BlackRock is the world’s largest publicly tradedinvestment management firm, with approximately $7.4 trillion of assets under management as of December 31, 2019. BlackRock manages assets on behalf ofinstitutions and individuals worldwide through a variety of equity, fixed income, real estate, cash management and alternative investment products. BlackRockserves clients in North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa and the Middle East. Headquartered in New York, BlackRock maintains offices in over30 countries, including 25 primary investment centers. BlackRock’s institutional knowledge includes proprietary valuation techniques, market outlook, competitiveevaluation and structuring and operational expertise. In addition, BlackRock provides risk management, investment system outsourcing and financial advisoryservices to a growing number of institutional investors. Through BlackRock Solutions®, BlackRock provides risk management and advisory services that combinecapital markets expertise with internally-developed systems and technology.
The investment professionals of the Advisor have significant industry experience, including experience investing in middle-market companies. Together, theyhave invested approximately $29.0 billion in 709 companies since the Advisor’s inception in 1999, through multiple business and credit cycles, across all segmentsof the capital structure and through a broad set of credit-oriented strategies including leveraged loan origination, secondary investments of discounted debtsecurities, and distressed and control opportunities. We believe that the Advisor's investment perspectives, complementary skills, and collective investmentexperience along with BlackRock’s resources, relationships and global platform provide the Advisor with a strategic and competitive advantage in middle-marketinvesting.
As our investment advisor, the Advisor is responsible for sourcing potential investments, conducting research, analyzing investment opportunities andstructuring our investments and monitoring our portfolio companies on an ongoing basis. We believe that the Advisor has a proven long-term track record ofpositive performance, notwithstanding some periods during which losses were incurred, of sourcing deals, originating loans and successfully investing in middle-market companies and that the relationships of its investment professionals are integral to the Advisor’s success. The Advisor’s investment professionals havelong-term working relationships with key sources of investment opportunities and industry expertise, including investment bankers, financial advisors, attorneys,private equity sponsors, other senior lenders, high-yield bond specialists, research analysts, accountants, and senior management teams. Additionally, BlackRock’sbroad and established sourcing network along with the Advisor’s board of advisors and senior executive advisors from a variety of industries extend the reach ofthe Advisor’s relationships and can enhance our deal sourcing and due diligence activities.
We also benefit from the existing infrastructure and administrative capabilities of an established investment manager. The Administrator, an affiliate of theAdvisor, provides us with office space, equipment and office services. The tasks of our Administrator include overseeing our financial records, preparing reports toour stockholders and reports filed with the SEC and generally monitoring the payment of our expenses and the performance of administrative and professionalservices rendered to us by others.
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Since the beginning of 2011, the Advisor executed across its funds approximately $15.5 billion in direct origination leveraged loans primarily to middle-market companies, of which approximately $4.4 billion was for our account. There can be no assurance that similar deal flow or terms will be available in thefuture for loans in which we may invest.
Operating and Regulatory Tax Structure
The Company elected to be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a RIC under the Code. As a RIC, the Company generally does not have to paycorporate-level federal income taxes on any net ordinary income or capital gain that we distribute to our stockholders as dividends if we meet certain source-of-income, distribution and asset diversification requirements. The Company has elected to be regulated as a BDC under the 1940 Act. As a BDC we are required toinvest at least 70% of our total assets primarily in securities of private and certain public U.S. companies (other than investment companies and certain financialinstitutions), cash, cash equivalents, U.S. Government securities, and other high-quality debt investments that mature in one year or less and to comply with otherregulatory requirements, including limitations on our use of debt.
Investment Strategy
To achieve our investment objectives, we intend to focus on a subset of the broader investment strategies historically pursued by the Advisor. Our primaryinvestment focus is the ongoing origination of and investments in leveraged loans of performing middle-market companies, building on the Advisor’s establishedtrack record of origination and participation in the original syndication of approximately $19.7 billion of leveraged loans to 482 companies since 1999, of whichwe invested over $5.0 billion in 267 companies. For the purposes of this filing, the term “leveraged loans” refers to senior debt investments that rank ahead ofsubordinated debt and that generally have the benefit of security interests in the assets of the borrower. Our investments generally range from $10 million to $50million per company, the size of which may grow over time in proportion with our capital base. We expect to generate current returns through a combination of thereceipt of contractual interest payments on debt investments and origination and similar fees, and, to a lesser extent, equity appreciation through options, warrants,conversion rights or direct equity investments. We often receive equity interests such as preferred or common stock and warrants or options in connection with ourdebt investments. From time to time we may also use other investment strategies, which are not our primary focus, to attempt to enhance the overall return of ourportfolio. These investment strategies may include, but are not limited to, the purchase of discounted debt, opportunistic investments, and financial instruments tohedge currency or interest rate risk associated with our portfolio.
Our typical investments are in performing middle-market companies. We believe that middle-market companies are generally less able to secure financingthan larger companies and thus offer better return opportunities for those able to conduct the necessary diligence to appropriately evaluate these companies. Wefocus primarily on U.S. companies where we believe our Advisor’s perspective, complementary skills and investment experience provides us with a competitiveadvantage and in industries where our Advisor sees an attractive risk reward profile due to macroeconomic trends and existing Advisor industry expertise.
Investment Portfolio
At December 31, 2019, our investment portfolio of $1,649.5 million (at fair value) consisted of 105 portfolio companies and was invested 93.1% in debtinvestments, primarily in senior secured debt. In aggregate, our investment portfolio was invested 86.6% in senior secured loans, 5.2% in senior secured notes,1.3% in junior notes and 6.9% in equity investments. Our average portfolio company investment at fair value was approximately $15.7 million. Our largestportfolio company investment by value was approximately 4.4% of our portfolio and our five largest portfolio company investments by value comprisedapproximately 17.2% of our portfolio at December 31, 2019.
The following charts summarize our portfolio mix by industry and type based on the fair value of our investments as of December 31, 2019.
Investment Process
The Advisor’s investment process is designed to maximize its strategic advantages: a strong brand name as a specialty lender to the middle-market and diversein-house expertise and skills. The Advisor seeks out opportunities by conducting a rigorous and disciplined investment process that combines the followingcharacteristics:
Deal Sourcing
As a leading middle-market corporate debt investment manager with approximately $11 billion in committed capital as of December 31, 2019 (approximately18% of which consists of the Company’s committed capital) and which has invested on behalf of institutions since 1999, the Advisor is active in new dealfinancing opportunities in the middle-market segment. However, we believe that the Advisor’s real deal flow advantage comes from the proprietary network ofestablished relationships of its investment professionals and synergies among its professionals and portfolio companies. Members of the Advisor’s InvestmentCommittee for the Company (the “Investment Committee”) have long-term relationships with deal sources including investment bankers, restructuringprofessionals, bankruptcy attorneys, senior lenders, high yield bond specialists, research analysts, accountants, fund management teams, the Advisor’s advisoryboard, senior executive advisors, board members of former clients, former colleagues and other operating professionals to facilitate deal flow. The InvestmentCommittee is currently comprised of four voting members. In total, the Investment Committee consists of approximately 30 members from the Advisor. The
number of voting and non-voting members of the Investment Committee is subject to increase or decrease in the sole discretion of the Advisor. All members of theInvestment Committee attend investment meetings and are encouraged to participate in discussions. In addition, members of the Investment Committee haverelationships with other investors, including insurance companies, bond funds, mezzanine funds, private equity funds, hedge funds and other funds which invest insimilar assets. Further, the Advisor regularly calls on both active and recently retired senior executives from the relevant industries to assist with the due diligenceof potential investments. Historically, these relationships with retired senior executives have also been a valuable source of transactions and information. TheAdvisor anticipates that they will continue to provide future opportunities. We believe the Advisor’s strong relationships with its portfolio companies facilitatepositive word-of-mouth recommendations to other companies seeking the Advisor’s expertise. The Advisor’s relationships often result in the ability to accessinvestment opportunities earlier than many of its competitors and in some cases on an exclusive basis.
Due Diligence Process
The foundation of the Advisor’s investment process is intensive investment research and analysis by its experienced staff of investment professionals. TheAdvisor’s senior professionals have worked together for
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numerous years and we believe that they have a superior level of credit investing knowledge relative to other credit investors. The Advisor supplements its in-house knowledge with industry experts, including CEO/CFO-level executives, with direct management experience in the industries under consideration. TheAdvisor prefers these industry experts to consultants because of the practical business advice that comes from having managed businesses. The Advisor rigorouslyand comprehensively analyzes issuers of securities of interest. The process includes a quantitative and qualitative assessment of the issuer’s business, an evaluationof its management, an analysis of the business strategy and industry trends, and an in-depth examination of the company’s capital structure, financial results andprojections. The Advisor’s due diligence process includes:
• an assessment of the outlook for the industry and general macroeconomic trends;
• discussions with issuer management and other industry executives, including the assessment of management/board strengths and weaknesses;
• an analysis of the fundamental asset values and the enterprise value of the issuer;
• review of the issuer’s key assets, core competencies, competitive advantages, historical and projected financial statements, capitalization, financialflexibility, debt amortization requirements, and tax, environmental, legal and regulatory contingencies;
• review of the issuer’s existing credit documents, including credit agreements, indentures, intercreditor agreements, and security agreements; and
• review of documents governing the issuer, including charter, by-laws, and key contracts.
As a part of its due diligence process, the Advisor considers sustainability-related factors that can affect the future prospects of the issuer. Since sustainableinvestment options have the potential to offer better outcomes, the Advisor integrates sustainability considerations into the way the it manages risk, constructsportfolios, designs products, and engages with companies.
Structuring Originations
As an early non-bank participant in the leveraged loan market, we believe that loan origination is a core competency of the Advisor. Supplementing industrydeal teams’ experience and competency, the Advisor has a number of professionals with legal experience, including significant experience in bankruptcy andsecured credit. Deal teams work with the Advisor’s in-house legal specialists and outside counsel to structure over-collateralized loans with what we believe to bestrong creditor protections and contractual controls over borrower operations. In many cases, the Advisor works to obtain contractual governance rights and boardobserver seats to protect principal and maximize post-investment returns. Deals usually include original issue discounts, upfront fees, exit fees and/or equityparticipations through warrants or direct equity stakes.
Trading and Secondary Market Purchases
A key element in maximizing investment returns in secondary purchases is buying and selling investments at the best available prices. The Advisor has adedicated trading staff for both the highly specialized traded loan market and for high-yield bonds. Through its trading operations, the Advisor maintains itsestablished relationships with a network of broker-dealers in the debt securities markets. These relationships provide the Advisor with access to the tradingdynamics of existing or potential investments and assist it in effectively executing transactions. These relationships may also lead to the early identification ofpotential investment opportunities for the Company.
Portfolio Management & Monitoring
The Advisor actively monitors the financial performance of its portfolio companies and market developments. This constant monitoring permits the Advisor toupdate position risk assessments, seek to address potential problems early, refine exit plans, and make follow-on investment decisions quickly. We view activeportfolio monitoring as a vital part of our investment process.
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We consider board observation and information rights, regular dialogue with company management and sponsors, and detailed internally generatedmonitoring reports to be critical to our performance. We have developed a monitoring template that seeks to ensure compliance with these standards and that isused as a tool by the Investment Committee to assess investment performance relative to plan.
• Deal teams maintain contact with portfolio company management through regularly scheduled and ad hoc conference calls and onsite visits.
• Deal teams review portfolio company progress relative to plan and pre-determined performance benchmarks.
• Adverse or unexpected developments, as well as consequential routine updates, are reported to the Investment Committee and thoroughly discussed atregularly scheduled weekly meetings. If merited, the Investment Committee will hold ad hoc meetings as necessary to address urgent issues.
• Deal teams, with Investment Committee approval, encourage portfolio company managers to catalyze events to monetize holdings for greater return, orwhere needed, take corrective actions to address shortfalls to plan or benchmarks.
• All existing portfolio holdings are formally reviewed in detail by the entire Investment Committee once per quarter at the Advisor’s quarterly portfolioreview.
Investment Committee and Decision Process
The Advisor’s investment process is organized around the Investment Committee that provides for a centralized, repeatable decision process. The InvestmentCommittee meets weekly and, with respect to each fund the Advisor advises, certain members of the Investment Committee are voting members. The votingmembers of the Investment Committee for the Company are currently Michael E. Leitner, Howard M. Levkowitz, Philip M. Tseng and Rajneesh Vig. Approval bya simple majority vote of the voting members of the Investment Committee for each respective fund is required for the purchase or sale of any investment, withcertain de-minimis exceptions. No voting member has veto power. The Advisor’s investment process is designed to maximize risk-adjusted returns and preservedownside protection.
Regulation
We have filed an election to be regulated as a BDC under the 1940 Act. The 1940 Act contains prohibitions and restrictions relating to transactions betweenBDCs and their affiliates (including any investment advisors or co-advisors), principal underwriters and affiliates of those affiliates or underwriters and requiresthat a majority of the directors be persons other than “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the 1940 Act. In addition, the 1940 Act provides that we maynot change the nature of our business so as to cease to be, or to withdraw our election as, a BDC unless approved by “a majority of our outstanding votingsecurities”, which is defined in the 1940 Act as the lesser of a majority of the outstanding voting securities or 67% or more of the securities voting if a quorum of amajority of the outstanding voting securities is present.
We may invest up to 100% of our assets in securities acquired directly from issuers in privately negotiated transactions. With respect to such securities, wemay, for the purpose of public resale, be deemed an “underwriter” as that term is defined in the Securities Act of 1933, or the Securities Act. We do not intend toacquire securities issued by any investment company that exceed the limits imposed by the 1940 Act. Under these limits, except for registered money market fundswe generally cannot acquire more than 3% of the voting stock of any investment company, invest more than 5% of the value of our total assets in the securities ofone investment company or invest more than 10% of the value of our total assets in the securities of more than one investment company. With regard to thatportion of our portfolio invested in securities issued by investment companies, it should be noted that such investments might indirectly subject our stockholders toadditional expenses as they will indirectly be responsible for the costs and expenses of such companies. None of our investment policies are fundamental and anymay be changed without stockholder approval.
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Qualifying assets
Under the 1940 Act, a BDC may not acquire any asset other than assets of the type listed in section 55(a) of the 1940 Act, which are referred to as qualifyingassets, unless, at the time the acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% of the Company’s total assets. The principal categories of qualifyingassets relevant to our proposed business are the following:
• Securities purchased in transactions not involving any public offering from the issuer of such securities, which issuer (subject to certain limitedexceptions) is an eligible portfolio company, or from any person who is, or has been during the preceding 13 months, an affiliated person of an eligibleportfolio company, or from any other person, subject to such rules as may be prescribed by the SEC. An eligible portfolio company is defined in the 1940Act as any issuer which:
• is organized under the laws of, and has its principal place of business in, the United States;
• is not an investment company (other than a small business investment company wholly owned by the BDC) or a company that would be aninvestment company but for certain exclusions under the 1940 Act; and
• satisfies either of the following:
• has a market capitalization of less than $250.0 million or does not have any class of securities listed on a national securities exchange; or
• is controlled by a BDC or a group of companies including a BDC, the BDC actually exercises a controlling influence over the management orpolicies of the eligible portfolio company, and, as a result thereof, the BDC has an affiliated person who is a director of the eligible portfoliocompany.
• Securities of any eligible portfolio company which we control.
• Securities purchased in a private transaction from a U.S. issuer that is not an investment company or from an affiliated person of the issuer, or intransactions incident thereto, if the issuer is in bankruptcy and subject to reorganization or if the issuer, immediately prior to the purchase of its securitieswas unable to meet its obligations as they came due without material assistance other than conventional lending or financing arrangements.
• Securities of an eligible portfolio company purchased from any person in a private transaction if there is no ready market for such securities and wealready own 60% of the outstanding equity of the eligible portfolio company.
• Securities received in exchange for or distributed on or with respect to securities described above, or pursuant to the exercise of warrants or rights relatingto such securities.
• Cash, cash equivalents, U.S. Government securities or high-quality debt securities maturing in one year or less from the time of investment.
Asset Coverage Requirement
Under Section 61(a) of the 1940 Act, prior to March 23, 2018, a BDC was generally not permitted to issue senior securities unless after giving effect theretothe BDC met a coverage ratio of total assets, less liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities, to total senior securities, which includes allborrowings of the BDC, of at least 200%. On March 23, 2018, the Small Business Credit Availability Act (“SBCAA”) was signed into law, which among otherthings, amended Section 61(a) of the 1940 Act to add a new Section 61(a)(2) that reduces the asset coverage requirement applicable to BDCs from 200% to 150%so long as the BDC meets certain disclosure requirements and obtains certain approvals. The reduced asset coverage requirement permits a BDC to have a ratio oftotal consolidated assets to outstanding indebtedness of 2:1 as compared to a maximum of 1:1 under the 200% asset coverage requirement.
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In accordance with the 1940 Act, with certain limited exceptions, we were allowed to borrow amounts such that our asset coverage ratio, as defined in the1940 Act, equaled at least 200% after such borrowing. Effective November 7, 2018, the Company's board of directors, including a “required majority” (as suchterm is defined in Section 57(o) of the 1940 Act) of our board of directors, approved the application of the modified asset coverage requirements set forth inSection 61(a)(2) of the 1940 Act, as amended by the SBCAA (the “Asset Coverage Ratio Election”), which would have resulted (had the Company not receivedearlier stockholder approval) in our asset coverage requirement applicable to senior securities being reduced from 200% to 150%, effective on November 7, 2019.On February 8, 2019, the stockholders of the Company approved the Asset Coverage Ratio Election, and, as a result, effective on February 9, 2019, our assetcoverage requirement applicable to senior securities was reduced from 200% to 150%.
Managerial assistance to portfolio companies
A BDC must have been organized and have its principal place of business in the United States and must be operated for the purpose of making investments inthe types of securities described in “Qualifying assets” above. However, in order to count portfolio securities as qualifying assets for the purpose of the 70% test,the BDC must either control the issuer of the securities or must offer to make available to the issuer of the securities significant managerial assistance. Where theBDC purchases such securities in conjunction with one or more other persons acting together, the BDC will satisfy this test if one of the other persons in the groupmakes available such managerial assistance, although reliance on other investors may not be the sole method by which the BDC satisfies the requirement to makeavailable managerial assistance. Making available managerial assistance means, among other things, any arrangement whereby the BDC, through its investmentmanager, directors, officers or employees, offers to provide, and, if accepted, does so provide, significant guidance and counsel concerning the management,operations or business objectives and policies of a portfolio company.
Small Business Administration Regulations
On April 22, 2014, the SBIC received a license from the Small Business Administration (the “SBA”) to operate as a small business investment company. TheSBIC license allows us to borrow funds from the SBA against eligible investments. The Small Business Investment Company regulations currently limit theamount that is available to borrow by any SBIC to $150.0 million. There is no assurance that we will draw up to the maximum limit available under the SmallBusiness Investment Company program.
Small business investment companies are designed to stimulate the flow of private equity capital to eligible small businesses. Under present Small BusinessAdministration regulations, eligible small businesses include businesses that have a tangible net worth not exceeding $19.5 million and have average annual fullytaxed net income not exceeding $6.5 million for the two most recent fiscal years. In addition, a small business investment company must devote 25% of itsinvestment activity to “smaller” concerns as defined by the Small Business Administration. A smaller concern is one that has a tangible net worth not exceeding$6.0 million and has average annual fully taxed net income not exceeding $2.0 million for the two most recent fiscal years. Small Business Administrationregulations also provide alternative size standard criteria to determine eligibility, which depend on the industry in which the business is engaged and are based onsuch factors as the number of employees and gross sales. According to Small Business Administration regulations, small business investment companies may makelong-term loans to small businesses, invest in the equity securities of such businesses and provide them with consulting and advisory services. We plan to providelong-term loans to qualifying small businesses, and in connection therewith, make equity investments.
The SBIC is periodically examined and audited by the Small Business Administration’s staff to determine its compliance with small business investmentcompany regulations.
Taxation of the Company
We have elected to be taxed as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. To continue to qualify as a RIC, we must, among other things, (a) derive in eachtaxable year at least 90 percent of our gross income from dividends, interest (including tax-exempt interest), payments with respect to certain securities loans, gainsfrom the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, other income (including but not limited to gain from
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options, futures and forward contracts) derived with respect to our business of investing in stock, securities or currencies, or net income derived from an interest ina “qualified publicly traded partnership” (a “QPTP”); and (b) diversify our holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of each taxable year (i) at least 50 percent ofthe market value of our total assets is represented by cash and cash items, U.S. Government securities, the securities of other RICs and other securities, with othersecurities limited, in respect of any one issuer, to an amount not greater than five percent of the value of our total assets and not more than 10 percent of theoutstanding voting securities of such issuer (subject to the exception described below), and (ii) not more than 25 percent of the market value of our total assets isinvested in the securities (other than U.S. Government securities and the securities of other regulated investment companies) (A) of any issuer, (B) of any two ormore issuers that we control and that are determined to be engaged in the same business or similar or related trades or businesses, or (C) of one or more QPTPs.The Code provides for certain exceptions to the foregoing diversification requirements. We may generate certain income that might not qualify as good income forpurposes of the 90% annual gross income requirement described above. We monitor our transactions to endeavor to prevent our disqualification as a RIC.
If we fail to satisfy the 90% annual gross income requirement or the asset diversification requirements discussed above in any taxable year, we may be eligiblefor relief provisions if the failures are due to reasonable cause and not willful neglect and if a penalty tax is paid with respect to each failure to satisfy theapplicable requirements. Additionally, relief is provided for certain de minimis failures of the asset diversification requirements where we correct the failure withina specified period. If the applicable relief provisions are not available or cannot be met, all of our income would be subject to corporate-level U.S. federal incometax as described below. We cannot provide assurance that we would qualify for any such relief should we fail the 90% annual gross income requirement or theasset diversification requirements discussed above.
As a RIC, in any taxable year with respect to which we timely distribute at least 90% of the sum of our (i) investment company taxable income (whichincludes, among other items, dividends, interest and the excess of any net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss and other taxable income (otherthan any net capital gain), reduced by deductible expenses) determined without regard to the deduction for dividends and distributions paid and (ii) net tax exemptinterest income (which is the excess of our gross tax exempt interest income over certain disallowed deductions) (the “Annual Distribution Requirement”), we (butnot our stockholders) generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on investment company taxable income and net capital gain (generally, net long-termcapital gain in excess of short-term capital loss) that we distribute to our stockholders. We intend to distribute annually all or substantially all of such income on atimely basis. To the extent that we retain our net capital gain for investment or any investment company taxable income, we will be subject to U.S. federal incometax at the regular corporate income tax rates. We may choose to retain our net capital gains for investment or any investment company taxable income, and pay theassociated federal corporate income tax, including the federal excise tax described below.
Certain amounts not distributed during a calendar year are subject to a nondeductible four percent U.S. federal excise tax payable by us. To avoid this tax, wewould need to distribute (or be deemed to have distributed) during each calendar year an amount equal to the sum of:
(1) at least 98 percent of our ordinary income (not taking into account any capital gains or losses) for the calendar year;
(2) at least 98.2 percent of the amount by which our capital gains exceed our capital losses (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for a one-year periodgenerally ending on October 31 of the calendar year (unless an election is made by us to use our taxable year); and
(3) certain undistributed amounts from previous years on which we paid no U.S. federal income tax.
While we intend to distribute any income and capital gains in the manner necessary to minimize imposition of the four percent federal excise tax, sufficientamounts of our taxable income and capital gains may not be distributed to avoid entirely the imposition of the tax. In that event, we will be liable for the tax onlyon the amount by which we do not meet the foregoing distribution requirement.
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If, in any particular taxable year, we do not satisfy the Annual Distribution Requirement or otherwise were to fail to qualify as a RIC (for example, because wefail the 90% annual gross income requirement described above), and relief is not available as discussed above, all of our taxable income (including our net capitalgains) will be subject to tax at regular corporate rates without any deduction for distributions to stockholders, and distributions generally will be taxable to thestockholders as ordinary dividends to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits.
We may decide to be taxed as a regular corporation even if we would otherwise qualify as a RIC if we determine that treatment as a corporation for aparticular year would be in our best interests.
As a RIC, we are permitted to carry forward a net capital loss realized in a taxable year beginning on or after December 23, 2010 to offset capital gainindefinitely. For net capital losses realized in taxable years beginning on or after December 23, 2010, the excess of our net short-term capital loss over our net long-term capital gain is treated as a short-term capital loss arising on the first day of our next taxable year and the excess of our net long-term capital loss over our netshort-term capital gain is treated as a long-term capital loss arising on the first day of our next taxable year. If future capital gain is offset by carried forward capitallosses, such future capital gain is not subject to fund-level U.S. federal income tax, regardless of whether they are distributed to stockholders. Accordingly, we donot expect to distribute any such offsetting capital gain. A RIC cannot carry back or carry forward any net operating losses.
Investment Structure
Once we determine that a prospective portfolio company is suitable for a direct investment, we work with the management of that company and its othercapital providers, including senior and junior lenders, and equity holders, to structure an investment. We negotiate among these parties to agree on how ourinvestment is expected to be structured relative to the other capital in the portfolio company’s capital structure.
Leveraged Loans
We structure our investments primarily as secured leveraged loans. Leveraged loans are generally senior debt instruments that rank ahead of subordinated debtof the portfolio company. Leveraged loans generally have the benefit of security interests on the assets of the portfolio company, which may rank ahead of, or bejunior to, other security interests.
High-Yield Securities
The Company’s portfolio currently includes high-yield securities and the Company may invest in high-yield securities in the future. High-yield securities havehistorically experienced greater default rates than has been the case for investment grade securities and are generally rated below investment grade by one or morenationally recognized statistical rating organizations or will be unrated but of comparable credit quality to obligations rated below investment grade, and havegreater credit and liquidity risk than more highly rated obligations. High-yield securities are generally unsecured and may be subordinate to other obligations of theobligor and are often issued in connection with leveraged acquisitions or recapitalizations in which the issuers incur a substantially higher amount of indebtednessthan the level at which they had previously operated. The Company’s portfolio may also include mezzanine investments which are generally unsecured and ratedbelow investment grade. Mezzanine investments of the type in which the Company invests in are primarily privately negotiated subordinated debt securities oftenissued in connection with leveraged transactions, such as management buyouts, acquisitions, re-financings, recapitalizations and later stage growth capitalfinancings, and are generally accompanied by related equity participation features such as options, warrants, preferred and common stock. In some cases, our debtinvestments may provide for a portion of the interest payable to be paid-in-kind interest. To the extent interest is paid-in-kind, it will be payable through theincrease of the principal amount of the obligation by the amount of interest due on the then-outstanding aggregate principal amount of such obligation.
Warrants, Options and Minority Equity
In some cases, we will also receive nominally priced warrants or options to buy a minority equity interest in the portfolio company in connection with a loan.As a result, if a portfolio company appreciates in value, we may
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achieve additional investment return from this equity interest. We may structure such warrants to include provisions protecting our rights as a minority-interestholder, as well as a “put,” or right to sell such securities back to the issuer, upon the occurrence of specified events. In many cases, we may also seek to obtainregistration rights in connection with these equity interests, which may include demand and “piggyback” registration rights.
Distressed Debt
The Company’s portfolio currently includes distressed debt investments and the Company is authorized to continue to invest in the securities and otherobligations of distressed and bankrupt issuers, including debt obligations that are in covenant or payment default. As of December 31, 2019, two of the Company’sdebt investments were on non-accrual status. The Company does not anticipate distressed debt to be a significant part of its investment strategy. Such investmentsgenerally trade significantly below par and are considered speculative. The repayment of defaulted obligations is subject to significant uncertainties. Defaultedobligations might be repaid only after lengthy workout or bankruptcy proceedings, during which the issuer might not make any interest or other payments.Typically such workout or bankruptcy proceedings result in only partial recovery of cash payments or an exchange of the defaulted obligation for other debt orequity securities of the issuer or its affiliates, which may in turn be illiquid or speculative.
Opportunistic Investments
Opportunistic investments may include, but are not limited to, investments in debt securities of all kinds and at all levels of the capital structure and mayinclude equity securities of public companies that are thinly traded, emerging market debt, structured finance vehicles such as collateralized loan obligation, orCLO, funds and debt of middle-market companies located outside the United States. We do not intend such investments to be our primary focus.
We tailor the terms of each investment to the facts and circumstances of the transaction and the prospective portfolio company, negotiating a structure thatprotects our rights and manages our risk while creating incentives for the portfolio company to achieve its business plan and improve its operating results. We seekto limit the downside potential of our investments by:
• requiring a total return on our investments (including both interest and potential equity appreciation) that we believe will compensate us appropriately forcredit risk;
• negotiating covenants in connection with our investments that afford our portfolio companies as much flexibility in managing their businesses as possible,consistent with the preservation of our capital. Such restrictions may include affirmative and negative covenants, default penalties, lien protection, changeof control provisions and board rights, including either observation or rights to a seat on the board of directors under some circumstances; and
• selecting investments that we believe have a very low probability of loss.
We expect to hold most of our investments to maturity or repayment, but we may sell some of our investments earlier if a liquidity event occurs, such as asale, recapitalization or worsening of the credit quality of the portfolio company.
Available Information
We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and all amendments to these reports and other information with the SEC. We make availablefree-of-charge, on or through our website at http://investors.tcpcapital.com/, our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reportson Form 8-K, proxy statements and all amendments to those filings, as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with or furnished tothe SEC. We also make available on our website the charters for the Audit Committee and the Governance and Compensation Committee, as well as our Code ofEthics [required under the 1940 Act] and our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct required under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (our “SOX Code of Ethics”). Further,we will provide, without charge, upon written request, a copy of the Company’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reportson Form 8-K, proxy statements
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and all amendments to those filings as well as the committee charters, our Code of Ethics and our SOX Code of Ethics. Requests for copies should be addressed to:BlackRock TCP Capital Corp., 2951 28th Street, Suite 1000, Santa Monica, CA 90405, Attention: Investor Relations. Reports, proxy statements and otherinformation regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC, including our filings, are also available to the public from the SEC’s website athttp://www.sec.gov.
Compliance Policies and Procedures
We and the Advisor have adopted and implemented written policies and procedures reasonably designed to detect and prevent violation of the federalsecurities laws. We are required to review these compliance policies and procedures annually for their adequacy and the effectiveness of their implementation andto designate a chief compliance officer to be responsible for their administration. Elizabeth Greenwood currently serves as our chief compliance officer.
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures
We have delegated our proxy voting responsibility to our investment adviser. A summary of the Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures of the Advisor are setforth below. The guidelines are reviewed periodically by the adviser and our non-interested directors, and, accordingly, are subject to change.
The Advisor is registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and has a fiduciary duty to act solely in the best interests of its clients. As part of thisduty, it recognizes that it must vote securities held by its clients in a timely manner free of conflicts of interest. These policies and procedures for voting proxies forinvestment advisory clients are intended to comply with Section 206 of, and Rule 206(4)-6 under, the Advisers Act.
Our investment adviser votes proxies relating to our portfolio securities in the best interest of our stockholders. The Advisor reviews on a case-by-case basiseach proposal submitted for a proxy vote to determine its impact on our investments. Although it generally votes against proposals that may have a negative impacton our investments, it may vote for such a proposal if there exists compelling long-term reasons to do so.
The proxy voting decisions of the Advisor are made by the senior officers who are responsible for monitoring each of our investments. To ensure that our voteis not the product of a conflict of interest, it requires that: (i) anyone involved in the decision making process disclose to the managing member any potentialconflict that he or she is aware of and any contact that he or she has had with any interested party regarding a proxy vote; and (ii) employees involved in thedecision making process or vote administration are generally prohibited from revealing how we intend to vote on a proposal in order to reduce any attemptedinfluence from interested parties.
You may obtain information about how we voted proxies by making a written request for proxy voting information to: BlackRock TCP Capital Corp., 2951 28thStreet, Suite 1000, Santa Monica, CA 90405, Attention: Investor Relations.
Privacy Principles
We are committed to maintaining the privacy of our stockholders and to safeguarding their non-public personal information. The following information isprovided to help you understand what personal information we collect, how we protect that information and why, in certain cases, we may share information withselect other parties.
Generally, we do not receive any non-public personal information relating to our stockholders, although certain non-public personal information of ourstockholders may become available to us. We do not disclose any non-public personal information about our stockholders or former stockholders to anyone, exceptas permitted by law or as is necessary in order to service stockholder accounts (for example, to a transfer agent or third-party administrator).
We restrict access to non-public personal information about our stockholders to employees of the Advisor and its affiliates with a legitimate business need forthe information. We maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards designed to protect the non-public personal information of our stockholders.
Investment Management Agreement
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The Company has entered into an investment management agreement with the Advisor, under which the Advisor, subject to the overall supervision of ourboard of directors, manages the day-to-day operations and provides investment advisory services to the Company. For providing these services, the Advisorreceives a base management fee and may receive incentive compensation. Prior to August 1, 2018, SVCP was regulated as a BDC and was also party to aninvestment management agreement with the Advisor. On January 29, 2018, SVCP amended and restated its limited partnership agreement (the "LPA"), effective asof January 1, 2018, to convert its then existing incentive compensation structure from a profit allocation and distribution to its general partner into a fee payable tothe Advisor pursuant to such investment management agreement. The amendment had no impact on the amount of the incentive compensation paid or servicesreceived by the Company. Accordingly, prior to January 1, 2018, incentive compensation was allocated to SVCP’s general partner as a distribution. In connectionwith the approval of the Asset Coverage Ratio Election, our Board of Directors approved, at in-person meetings held November 30, 2018 and December 28, 2018,an amended investment management agreement, which was approved by stockholders on February 8, 2019 and became effective on February 9, 2019.
Prior to August 1, 2018, the base management fee and the incentive compensation, if any, were paid by SVCP to the Advisor. The Company, therefore,indirectly bore these amounts, which are reflected in our consolidated financial statements.
Under the terms of our investment management agreement, the Advisor:
• determines the composition of our portfolio, the nature and timing of the changes to our portfolio and the manner of implementing such changes;
• identifies, evaluates and negotiates the structure of the investments we make (including performing due diligence on our prospective portfoliocompanies); and
• closes, monitors and administers the investments we make, including the exercise of any voting or consent rights.
The Advisor’s services under the investment management agreement are not exclusive, and it is free to furnish similar services to other entities so long as itsservices to us are not impaired.
Pursuant to our investment management agreement, we pay the Advisor compensation for investment advisory and management services consisting of basemanagement compensation and a two-part incentive compensation.
Management Fee. The base management fee is calculated at an annual rate of 1.5% of our total assets (excluding cash and cash equivalents) payable quarterlyin arrears; provided, however, that, effective as of February 9, 2019, the base management fee is calculated at an annual rate of 1.0% of our total assets (excludingcash and cash equivalents) that exceed an amount equal to 200% of the net asset value of the Company. For purposes of calculating the base management fee,“total assets” is determined without deduction for any borrowings or other liabilities. The base management fee is calculated based on the value of our total assetsand net asset value (in each case, excluding cash and cash equivalents) at the end of the most recently completed calendar quarter. The base management fee forany partial quarter is appropriately prorated.
Incentive Compensation. We also pay incentive compensation to the Advisor pursuant to the investment management agreement. Prior to January 1, 2018,incentive compensation was allocated to SVCP's general partner as a distribution under the LPA. Under the then-existing investment management agreements andthe LPA (pursuant to which incentive compensation was distributed to SVCP’s general partner prior to January 1, 2018), no incentive compensation was incurreduntil after January 1, 2013.
Incentive Compensation pursuant to investment management agreements prior to February 9, 2019
Beginning January 1, 2013, the incentive compensation equaled the sum of (1) 20% of all ordinary income since that date and (2) 20% of all net realizedcapital gains (net of any net unrealized capital depreciation) since that date, with each component being subject to a total return requirement of 8% of contributedcommon equity annually. Through December 31, 2017, the incentive compensation was an equity allocation to SVCP’s general partner under the LPA. Effective asof January 1, 2018, the LPA was amended to remove the incentive compensation distribution
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provisions therein, and the incentive compensation became payable as a fee to the Advisor pursuant to the then-existing investment management agreements. Theamendment had no impact on the amount of the incentive compensation paid or services received by the Company.
The incentive compensation had two components, ordinary income and capital gains. Each component was payable or distributable quarterly in arrears (orupon termination of the Advisor as the investment manager or SVCP’s general partner as its general partner, as of the termination date) beginning January 1, 2013and calculated as follows:
Each of the two components of incentive compensation was separately subject to a total return limitation. Thus, notwithstanding the following provisions, wewere not be obligated to pay or distribute any ordinary income incentive compensation or any capital gains incentive compensation if our cumulative total returndid not exceed an 8% annual return on daily weighted average contributed common equity. If our cumulative annual total return was above 8%, the totalcumulative incentive compensation we paid was not more than 20% of our cumulative total return, or, if lower, the amount of our cumulative total return thatexceeded the 8% annual rate.
Subject to the above limitation, the ordinary income component was the amount, if positive, equal to 20% of the cumulative ordinary income before incentivecompensation, less cumulative ordinary income incentive compensation previously paid or distributed.
Subject to the above limitation, the capital gains component was the amount, if positive, equal to 20% of the cumulative realized capital gains (computed netof cumulative realized losses and cumulative net unrealized capital depreciation), less cumulative capital gains incentive compensation previously paid ordistributed. For assets held on January 1, 2013, capital gain, loss and depreciation are measured on an asset by asset basis against the value as of December 31,2012. The capital gains component was paid or distributed in full prior to payment or distribution of the ordinary income component.
For purposes of the foregoing computations and the total return limitation, the following definitions apply:
• “cumulative” means amounts for the period commencing January 1, 2013 and ending as of the applicable calculation date.
• “contributed common equity” means the value of net assets attributable to our common stock as of December 31, 2012 plus the proceeds to us of allissuances of common stock less (A) offering costs of any of our securities or leverage facilities, (B) all distributions by us representing a return of capital and(C) the total cost of all repurchases of our common stock by us, in each case after December 31, 2012 and through the end of the preceding calendar quarter inquestion, in each case as determined on an accrual and consolidated basis.
• “ordinary income before incentive compensation” means our interest income, dividend income and any other income (including any other fees, such ascommitment, origination, structuring, diligence, managerial assistance and consulting fees or other fees that we receive from portfolio companies) during theperiod, (i) minus our operating expenses during the period (including the base management fee, expenses payable under the administration agreement, anyinterest expense and any dividends paid on any issued and outstanding preferred stock), (ii) plus increases and minus decreases in net assets not treated ascomponents of income, operating expense, gain, loss, appreciation or depreciation and not treated as contributions or distributions in respect of commonequity, and (iii) without reduction for any incentive compensation and any organization or offering costs, in each case determined on an accrual andconsolidated basis.
• “total return” means the amount equal to the combination of ordinary income before incentive compensation, realized capital gains and losses andunrealized capital appreciation and depreciation of the Company for the period, in each case determined on an accrual and consolidated basis.
If our total return did not exceed the total return limitation, the limitation would not have had the effect of eliminating the possibility of paying such incentivecompensation, but rather would have postponed any incentive compensation until our cumulative annual total return exceeded the 8% threshold. The nature of thetotal return limitation may have also made it easier for the Advisor to earn incentive compensation in higher interest rate environments or if our net asset value hadincreased.
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Total Return Limitation (based on cumulative annual total return)
Percentage of ordinary income and net realized capital gain separately payable at various levels of total return.
The financial highlights in the notes to our financial statements for the relevant periods include a calculation of total return based on the change in the marketvalue of our shares. The financial highlights in the notes to our financial statements for the relevant periods also include a calculation of total return based on thechange in our net asset value from period to period. The total return limitation for purposes of the incentive compensation calculations was based on the statedelements of return: ordinary income before incentive compensation, realized capital gain and loss and unrealized capital appreciation and depreciation. It differsfrom the total return based on the market value or net asset value of our shares in that it was a cumulative measurement that is compared to our daily weighted-average contributed common equity rather than a periodic measurement that is compared to our net asset value or market value, and in that it excludes incentivecompensation.
Incentive Compensation pursuant to the current investment management agreement
Under the current investment management agreement, dated February 9, 2019, the incentive compensation equals the sum of (1) 20% of all ordinary incomesince January 1, 2013 through February 8, 2019 and 17.5% thereafter and (2) 20% of all net realized capital gains (net of any net unrealized capital depreciation)since January 1, 2013 through February 8, 2019 and 17.5% thereafter, less ordinary income incentive compensation and capital gains incentive compensationpreviously paid. However, incentive compensation will only be paid to the extent the cumulative total return of the Company after incentive compensation andincluding such payment would equal or exceed a 7% annual return on daily weighted average contributed common equity.
The incentive compensation is payable quarterly in arrears (or upon termination of the Advisor as the investment manager, as of the termination date).
For assets held on January 1, 2013, capital gain, loss and depreciation are measured on an asset by asset basis against the value as of December 31, 2012. Thecapital gains component is paid or distributed in full prior to payment or distribution of the ordinary income component.
For purposes of the foregoing computations, the following definitions apply:
• “cumulative” means amounts for the period commencing January 1, 2013 and ending as of the applicable calculation date.
• “contributed common equity” means the value of net assets attributable to our common stock as of December 31, 2012 plus the proceeds to us of allissuances of common stock less (A) offering costs of any of our securities or leverage facilities, (B) all distributions by us representing a return of capitaland (C) the total cost of all repurchases of our common stock by us, in each case after December 31, 2012 and through the end of the preceding calendarquarter in question, in each case as determined on an accrual and consolidated basis.
• “ordinary income before incentive compensation” means our interest income, dividend income and any other income (including any other fees, such ascommitment, origination, structuring, diligence, managerial assistance and consulting fees or other fees that we receive from portfolio companies) duringthe period, (i) minus our operating expenses during the period (including the base management fee, expenses payable under the administration agreement,any interest expense and any dividends paid on any issued and outstanding preferred stock), (ii) plus increases and minus decreases in net assets nottreated as components
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of income, operating expense, gain, loss, appreciation or depreciation and not treated as contributions or distributions in respect of common equity, and(iii) without reduction for any incentive compensation and any organization or offering costs, in each case determined on an accrual and consolidatedbasis.
• “total return” means the amount equal to the combination of ordinary income before incentive compensation, realized capital gains and losses andunrealized capital appreciation and depreciation of the Company and any other items affecting net asset value per share of the Company for the period(other than incentive compensation), in each case determined on an accrual and consolidated basis.
The financial highlights in the notes to our financial statements include a calculation of total return based on the change in the market value of our shares. Thefinancial highlights in the notes to our financial statements also include a calculation of total return based on the change in our net asset value from period toperiod. The total return hurdle for purposes of the incentive compensation calculations is based on the stated elements of return as defined above, and differs fromthe total return based on the market value or net asset value of our shares in that it is a cumulative measurement that is compared to our daily weighted-averagecontributed common equity rather than a periodic measurement that is compared to our net asset value or market value, and in that it excludes incentivecompensation.
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Examples of Incentive Compensation Calculation
Example 1: Income Portion of Incentive Compensation:
Assumptions
• Total return hurdle(1) = 7%
Alternative 1
a. Additional Assumptions
i. cumulative gross ordinary income (including interest, dividends, fees, etc.) = 11.5%
ii. cumulative ordinary income before incentive compensation (gross ordinary income - (management fee + other expenses)) = 9%
iii. cumulative annual total return = 6%
b. Cumulative total return does not exceed total return hurdle, therefore there is no income incentive compensation.
Alternative 2
a. Additional Assumptions
i. cumulative gross ordinary income (including interest, dividends, fees, etc.) = 10%
ii. cumulative ordinary income before incentive compensation (gross ordinary income - (management fee + other expenses)) = 7.5%
iii. cumulative annual total return = 8.5%
b. Tentative incentive compensation = 17.5% x ordinary income before incentive compensation
= 17.5% x 7.5%
= 1.3%
c. Total return after incentive compensation = 8.5% - 1.3%
= 7.2%
d. Cumulative ordinary income before incentive compensation is positive and the cumulative total return after incentive compensation exceeds the totalreturn hurdle, therefore incentive compensation is fully payable.
Alternative 3
a. Additional Assumptions
i. cumulative gross ordinary income (including interest, dividends, fees, etc.) = 10%
ii. cumulative ordinary income before incentive compensation (gross ordinary income — (management fee + other expenses)) = 7.5%
iii. cumulative annual total return = 8.0%
(1) Represents 7.0% annualized total return hurdle.• Management fee = 1.5%Represents 1.5% annualized management fee, assuming no liabilities and no leverage above 1.0x debt to equity.• Other expenses (legal, accounting, custodian, transfer agent, etc.) = 1%Excludes organizational and offering costs.
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b. Tentative incentive compensation = 17.5% x ordinary income before incentive compensation
= 17.5% x 7.5%
= 1.3%
c. Total return after tentative incentive compensation = 8.0% - 1.3%
= 6.7%
d. Cumulative ordinary income before incentive compensation is positive and the total return hurdle is less than total return but greater than total return aftertentative incentive compensation, therefore incentive compensation is partially payable and = Total return – total return hurdle
= 8.0% - 7.0%
= 1.0%
Example 2: Capital Gains Portion of Incentive Compensation:
Alternative 1:
a. Assumptions
i. Year 1: $20 million investment made in Company A (“Investment A”), and $30 million investment made in Company B (“Investment B”).
ii. Year 2: Investment A sold for $50 million and fair market value, or fair market value (“FMV”), of Investment B determined to be $32 million.Cumulative annual total return of 40%.
iii. Year 3: FMV of Investment B determined to be $25 million. Cumulative annual total return of 15%.
iv. Year 4: Investment B sold for $31 million. Cumulative annual total return of 10%.
b. The capital gains portion of the incentive compensation would be:
i. Year 1: None.
ii. Year 2: Capital gains incentive compensation of $5.25 million ($5.25 million = $30 million realized capital gains on sale of Investment Amultiplied by 17.5% and total return hurdle satisfied).
iii. Year 3: None; no realized capital gains.
iv. Year 4: Capital gains incentive compensation of $0.175 million ($31 million cumulative realized capital gains multiplied by 17.5%, less $5.25million of capital gains incentive compensation paid in year 2 and total return hurdle satisfied).
Alternative 2
a. Assumptions
i. Year 1: $20 million investment made in Company A (“Investment A”), $30 million investment made in Company B (“Investment B”) and $25million investment made in Company C (“Investment C”).
ii. Year 2: Investment A sold for $50 million, FMV of Investment B determined to be $25 million and FMV of Investment C determined to be $25million. Cumulative annual total return of 15%.
iii. Year 3: FMV of Investment B determined to be $27 million and Investment C sold for $30 million. Cumulative annual total return of 6%.
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iv. Year 4: FMV of Investment B determined to be $35 million. Cumulative annual total return of 20%.
v. Year 5: Investment B sold for $40 million. Cumulative annual total return of 20%.
b. The capital gains portion of the incentive compensation would be:
i. Year 1: None.
ii. Year 2: Capital gains incentive compensation of $4.375 million; 17.5% multiplied by $25 million ($30 million realized capital gains onInvestment A less $5 million unrealized capital depreciation on Investment B, and the total return hurdle is satisfied).
iii. Year 3: None as the total return hurdle is not satisfied.
iv. Year 4: Capital gains incentive compensation of $1.75 million ($35 million cumulative realized capital gains (including $5 million of realizedcapital gains from year 3 at a time when the total return hurdle was not satisfied and no cumulative unrealized capital depreciation) multiplied by17.5%, less $4.375 million capital gains incentive compensation paid in year 2, and the total return hurdle is satisfied).
v. Year 5: Capital gains incentive compensation of $1.75 million ($45 million cumulative realized capital gains multiplied by 17.5%, less $6.125million in capital gains incentive compensation paid in years 2 and 4, and the total return hurdle is satisfied).
Payment of our expenses
All investment professionals and staff of the Advisor, when and to the extent engaged in providing investment advisory and management services, and thecompensation and routine overhead expenses of such personnel allocable to such services (including health insurance, 401(k) plan benefits, payroll taxes and othercompensation related matters), are provided and paid for by the Advisor. We bear all other costs and expenses of our operations and transactions, including thoserelating to:
• our organization;
• calculating our net asset value and net asset value per share (including the cost and expenses of any independent valuation firm);
• expenses, including travel expense, incurred by the Advisor or payable to third parties in performing due diligence on prospective portfolio companies,monitoring our investments and, if necessary, enforcing our rights;
• interest payable on debt, if any, incurred to finance our investments;
• the costs of all future offerings of common stock and other securities, if any;
• the base management fee and any incentive compensation;
• distributions on our shares;
• administration fees payable under our administration agreement;
• transfer agent and custody fees and expenses;
• the allocated costs incurred by our Administrator in providing managerial assistance to those portfolio companies that request it;
• amounts payable to third parties relating to, or associated with, evaluating, making and disposing of investments;
• brokerage fees and commissions;
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• registration fees;
• listing fees;
• taxes;
• director fees and expenses;
• costs of preparing and filing reports or other documents with the SEC;
• the costs of any reports, proxy statements or other notices to our stockholders, including printing costs;
• costs of holding stockholder meetings;
• our fidelity bond;
• directors and officers/errors and omissions liability insurance, and any other insurance premiums;
• litigation, indemnification and other non-recurring or extraordinary expenses;
• direct costs and expenses of administration and operation, including audit and legal costs;
• dues, fees and charges of any trade association of which we are a member; and
• all other expenses reasonably incurred by us or the Administrator in connection with administering our business, such as the allocable portion of overheadunder our administration agreement, including rent and other allocable portions of the cost of certain of our officers and their respective staffs.
From time to time, the Advisor may pay amounts owed by us to third party providers of goods or services. We will subsequently reimburse the Advisor forsuch amounts paid on our behalf.
Limitation of liability and indemnification
The investment management agreement provides that the Advisor and its officers, directors, employees and affiliates are not liable to us or any of ourstockholders for any act or omission by it or its employees in the supervision or management of our investment activities or for any loss sustained by us or ourstockholders, except that the foregoing exculpation does not extend to any act or omission constituting willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or recklessdisregard of its obligations under the investment management agreement. The investment management agreement also provides for indemnification by us of theAdvisor’s members, directors, officers, employees, agents and control persons for liabilities incurred by it in connection with their services to us, subject to thesame limitations and to certain conditions.
Board and stockholder approval of the investment management agreement
Our board of directors held in-person meetings on November 30, 2018 and December 28, 2018, in order to consider and reapprove our investmentmanagement agreement and stockholders approved the investment management agreement on February 8, 2019 to be effective on February 9, 2019. In itsconsideration of the investment management agreement, the board of directors focused on information it had received relating to, among other things: (a) thenature, quality and extent of the advisory and other services to be provided to us by the Advisor; (b) comparative data with respect to advisory fees or similarexpenses paid by other business development companies with similar investment objectives; (c) our financial performance, operating expenses and expense ratiocompared to business development companies with similar investment objectives; (d) any existing and potential sources of indirect income to the Advisor from itsrelationships with us and the profitability of those relationships; (e) information about the services performed and the personnel performing such services under theinvestment management agreement; (f) the organizational capability and financial condition of the Advisor and its affiliates; (g) the Advisor’s practices regardingthe selection and compensation of brokers that execute our portfolio transactions and the brokers’ provision of brokerage and research services to our investmentadvisor; and (h) the possibility of obtaining similar services from other third party service providers or through an internally managed structure.
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Based on the information reviewed and the discussions, the board of directors, including a majority of the non-interested directors, concluded that theinvestment management fee rates are reasonable in relation to the services to be provided.
Duration and termination
The investment management agreement will remain in effect for a period of two years from the date of stockholder approval and thereafter will remain ineffect from year to year if approved annually by our board of directors or by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of our outstanding voting securities,including, in either case, approval by a majority of our directors who are not interested persons. The investment management agreement will automaticallyterminate in the event of its assignment. The investment management agreement may be terminated by either party without penalty upon not less than 60 dayswritten notice to the other. Any termination by us must be authorized either by our board of directors or by vote of our stockholders. See “Risk Factors — Risksrelated to our business — We are dependent upon senior management personnel of the Advisor for our future success, and if the Advisor is unable to retainqualified personnel or if the Advisor loses any member of its senior management team, our ability to achieve our investment objective could be significantlyharmed.”
Administration Agreement
We have entered into an administration agreement with the Administrator, which we refer to as the administration agreement, under which the Administratorprovides administrative services to us. The Administrator provides services including, but not limited to, the arrangement for the services of, and the overseeing of,custodians, depositories, transfer agents, dividend disbursing agents, other stockholder servicing agents, accountants, attorneys, underwriters, brokers and dealers,corporate fiduciaries, insurers, banks, stockholders and such other persons in any such other capacity deemed to be necessary or desirable. The Administrator alsomakes reports to the board of its performance of obligations under the administration agreement and furnishes advice and recommendations with respect to suchother aspects of our business and affairs that we determine to be desirable. The Administrator is responsible for our financial and other records that are required tobe maintained and prepares all reports and other materials required by any agreement or to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission or any otherregulatory authority, including reports on Forms 8-K, 10-Q, 10-K and periodic reports to stockholders, determining the amounts available for distribution asdividends and distributions to be paid by us to our stockholders, reviewing and implementing any share purchase programs authorized by the board, maintaining oroverseeing the maintenance of our books and records as required under the 1940 Act, and maintaining (or overseeing maintenance by other persons) such otherbooks and records required by law or for our proper operation. For providing these services, facilities and personnel, we reimburse the Administrator for expensesincurred by the Administrator in performing its obligations under the administration agreement, including our allocable portion of overhead under theadministration agreement and the cost of certain of our officers and the Administrator’s administrative staff and providing, at our request and on our behalf,significant managerial assistance to our portfolio companies to which we are required to provide such assistance. From time to time, the Administrator may payamounts owed by us to third-party providers of goods or services. We subsequently reimburse the Administrator for such amounts paid on our behalf.
Leverage
Our leverage program is comprised of $270.0 million in available debt under a revolving, multi-currency credit facility issued by SVCP (the “SVCP Facility”),$300.0 million in available debt under a senior secured revolving credit facility issued by TCPC Funding (the “TCPC Funding Facility”), $140.0 million inconvertible senior unsecured notes issued by the Company maturing in 2022 (the “2022 Convertible Notes”), $175.0 million in senior unsecured notes issued bythe Company maturing in 2022 (the “2022 Notes”), $200.0 million in senior unsecured notes issued by the Company maturing in 2024 (the “2024 Notes”) and$150.0 million in committed leverage from the SBA (the “SBA Debentures” and, together with the SVCP Facility, the TCPC Funding Facility, the 2022Convertible Notes, the 2022 Notes and the 2024 Notes, the “Leverage Program”). Prior to its maturity on December 15, 2019, leverage also included convertiblesenior unsecured notes due December 2019 issued by the Company (the “2019 Convertible Notes”). Prior to being replaced by the SVCP Facility on February 26,2018, leverage included $116.0 million in available debt under a senior secured revolving credit facility issued by SVCP (the “SVCP 2018
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Facility”). From April 18, 2016 through its conversion to common equity on June 7, 2016, leverage also included a privately placed convertible senior unsecurednote due April 2021 issued by the Company. Prior to the repurchase and retirement of the remaining preferred interests on September 3, 2015, the LeverageProgram also included amounts outstanding under a preferred equity facility issued by SVCP.
The SVCP Facility matures on May 6, 2023, subject to extension by the lenders at the request of SVCP, and bears interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.00%. Inaddition to amounts due on outstanding debt, the SVCP Facility accrues commitment fees of 0.50% per annum on the unused portion of the facility, or 2.25% perannum on the unused portion that is greater than 60% of the total facility.
The TCPC Funding Facility matures on May 31, 2023, subject to extension by the lender at the request of TCPC Funding, and contains an accordion featurewhich allows for expansion of the facility up to $400.0 million subject to consent from the lender and other customary conditions. Borrowings under the TCPCFunding Facility bear interest at a rate of LIBOR plus either 2.00% or 2.35% per annum, subject to certain funding requirements, plus an administrative fee of0.25% per annum. In addition to amounts due on outstanding debt, the facility accrues commitment fees of 0.25% per annum on the unused portion of the facility,or 0.50% per annum when the unused portion is greater than 33% of the total facility, plus an administrative fee of 0.25% per annum.
On June 11, 2014, the Company issued $108.0 million of convertible senior unsecured notes that matured on December 15, 2019. The 2019 Convertible Noteswere general unsecured obligations of the Company, and ranked structurally junior to the SVCP Facility, the TCPC Funding Facility and the SBA Debentures, andranked pari passu with the 2022 Convertible Notes, 2024 Notes and 2022 Notes. The Company did not have the right to redeem the 2019 Convertible Notes priorto its maturity on December 15, 2019. The 2019 Convertible Notes bore interest at an annual rate of 5.25%, paid semi-annually.
On August 30, 2016, the Company issued $140.0 million of convertible senior unsecured notes that mature on March 1, 2022, unless previously converted orrepurchased in accordance with their terms. The 2022 Convertible Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company, and rank structurally junior to theSVCP Facility, the TCPC Funding Facility and the SBA Debentures, and rank pari passu with the 2022 Notes and 2024 Notes. The Company does not have theright to redeem the 2022 Convertible Notes prior to maturity. The 2022 Convertible Notes bear interest at an annual rate of 4.625%, payable semi-annually.
On August 4, 2017, the Company issued $125.0 million of unsecured notes that mature on August 11, 2022, unless previously repurchased or redeemed inaccordance with their terms. On November 3, 2017, the Company issued an additional $50.0 million of unsecured notes as a follow-on issuance of the 2022 Notes.The 2022 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company, and rank structurally junior to the SVCP Facility, the TCPC Funding Facility and the SBADebentures, and rank pari passu with the 2022 Convertible Notes and 2024 Notes. The 2022 Notes may be redeemed in whole or part at the Company's option at aredemption price equal to par plus a "make whole" premium, as determined pursuant to the indenture governing the 2022 Notes, and any accrued and unpaidinterest. The 2022 Notes bear interest at an annual rate of 4.125%, payable semi-annually.
On August 23, 2019, the Company issued $150.0 million of unsecured notes that mature on August 23, 2024, unless previously repurchased or redeemed inaccordance with their terms. On November 26, 2019, the Company issued an additional $50.0 million of unsecured notes as a follow-on issuance of the 2024Notes. The 2024 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company and rank structurally junior to the SVCP Facility, TCPC Funding Facility and the SBADebentures, and rank pari passu with the 2022 Convertible Notes and 2022 Notes. The 2024 Notes may be redeemed in whole or part at the Company's option at aredemption price equal to par plus a "make whole" premium, as determined pursuant to the indenture governing the 2024 Notes, and any accrued and unpaidinterest. The 2024 Notes bear interest at an annual rate of 3.900%, payable semi-annually.
The SBIC is able to issue up to $150.0 million in debt under the SBA Debentures, subject to funded regulatory capital and other customary regulatoryrequirements. SVCP has committed $75.0 million of regulatory capital to the SBIC, all of which had been funded at December 31, 2019. Debt issued under theSBA Debentures is non-recourse and may be prepaid at any time without penalty. The interest rate on such debt is fixed at the time of issuance at a market-drivenspread over 10-year U.S. Treasury Notes.
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The Leverage Program is subject to certain financial or other covenants. As of December 31, 2019, we were in full compliance with such covenants.
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 imposes a wide variety of regulatory requirements on publicly-held companies and their insiders. Many of these requirementsaffect us. For example:
• Pursuant to Rule 13a-14 of the 1934 Act, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer must certify the accuracy of the financial statementscontained in our periodic reports;
• Pursuant to Item 307 of Regulation S-K, our periodic reports must disclose our conclusions about the effectiveness of our disclosure controls andprocedures;
• Pursuant to Rule 13a-15 of the 1934 Act, our management must prepare a report regarding its assessment of our internal control over financial reporting;and
• Pursuant to Item 308 of Regulation S-K and Rule 13a-15 of the 1934 Act, our periodic reports must disclose whether there were significant changes in ourinternal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls subsequent to the date of their evaluation, including any corrective actionswith regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires us to review our current policies and procedures to determine whether we comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and theregulations promulgated thereunder. We will continue to monitor our compliance with all regulations that are adopted under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and will takeactions necessary to ensure that we are in compliance therewith.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
An investment in our securities involves certain risks relating to our structure and investment objectives. The risks set forth below are not the only risks weface, and we face other risks which we have not yet identified, which we do not currently deem material or which are not yet predictable. If any of the followingrisks occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. In such case, our net asset value and the tradingprice of our common stock could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.
Certain risks in the current environment
Capital markets may experience periods of disruption and instability. Such market conditions may materially and adversely affect debt and equity capitalmarkets in the United States and abroad, which may have a negative impact on our business and operations.
From time to time, capital markets may experience periods of disruption and instability, which may be evidenced by a lack of liquidity in debt capital markets,write-offs in the financial services sector, re-pricing of credit risk and failure of certain major financial institutions. An example of such disruption and instabilityoccurred between 2008 and 2009. During that period, despite actions of the U.S. federal government and foreign governments, such disruption and instabilitycontributed to worsening general economic conditions that materially and adversely impacted the broader financial and credit markets and reduced the availabilityof debt and equity capital for the market as a whole and financial services firms in particular. While capital markets have improved in recent years, these conditionscould deteriorate again and global financial markets could experience significant volatility. During such market disruptions, we may have difficulty raising debt orequity capital especially as a result of regulatory constraints. There can be no assurance that adverse market conditions will not repeat themselves or worsen in thefuture. Equity capital may be difficult to raise because, subject to some limited exceptions, as a BDC, we are generally not able to issue additional shares ofcommon stock at a price less than net asset value without first obtaining approval for such issuance from our stockholders and our independent directors. At ourannual meeting of stockholders held on May 30, 2019, subject to the condition that the maximum number of shares salable below net asset value pursuant to thisauthority in any particular offering that could result in such dilution is limited to 25% of our then outstanding common stock immediately prior to each suchoffering, our stockholders approved our ability
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to sell or otherwise issue shares of our common stock at a price below its then current net asset value per share for a twelve month period expiring on theanniversary of the date of stockholder approval. It should be noted that, theoretically, we may offer up to 25% of our then outstanding common stock each day. Inaddition, our ability to incur indebtedness (including by issuing preferred stock) is limited by applicable regulations such that our asset coverage ratio, as calculatedin accordance with the 1940 Act, must equal at least 150% immediately after each time we incur indebtedness. The debt capital that will be available to us in thefuture, if at all, may be at a higher cost and on less favorable terms and conditions than our current leverage. Any inability to raise capital could have a negativeeffect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Market conditions may in the future make it difficult to extend the maturity of or refinance our existing indebtedness and any failure to do so could have amaterial adverse effect on our business. The re-appearance of market conditions similar to those experienced from 2008 through 2009 for any substantial length oftime could make it difficult to extend the maturity of or refinance our existing indebtedness or obtain new indebtedness with similar terms and any failure to do socould have a material adverse effect on our business. The debt capital that will be available to us in the future, if at all, may be at a higher cost and on less favorableterms and conditions than what we currently experience. Further, if we are unable to raise or refinance debt, then our equity investors may not benefit from thepotential for increased returns on equity resulting from leverage and we may be limited in our ability to make new commitments or to fund existing commitmentsto our portfolio companies.
The illiquidity of our investments may make it difficult for us to sell such investments if required. As a result, we may realize significantly less than the valueat which we have recorded our investments. In addition, significant changes in the capital markets, including the disruption and volatility, have had, and may in thefuture have, a negative effect on the valuations of our investments and on the potential for liquidity events involving our investments. An inability to raise capital,and any required sale of our investments for liquidity purposes, could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Price declines and illiquidity in the corporate debt markets have adversely affected, and may in the future adversely affect, the fair value of our portfolioinvestments, reducing our net asset value through increased net unrealized depreciation.
As a BDC, we are required to carry our investments at market value or, if no market value is ascertainable, at fair value as determined in good faith by orunder the direction of our board of directors. Decreases in the market values or fair values of our investments are recorded as unrealized depreciation, whichreduces our net asset value. Depending on market conditions, we could incur substantial realized losses and may suffer additional unrealized losses in futureperiods, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Changes in legal, tax and regulatory regimes could negatively impact our business, financial condition and earnings.
The global financial crisis of 2007-2009 led the U.S. Government and the Federal Reserve, as well as certain foreign governments, to take a number ofunprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that experienced extreme volatility. The withdrawalof Federal Reserve or other U.S. or non-U.S. governmental support could negatively affect financial markets generally and reduce the value and liquidity of certainsecurities. Additionally, with continued economic recovery and the cessation of certain market support activities, we may face a heightened level of interest raterisk as a result of a rise or increased volatility in interest rates.
The current presidential administration has called for, and in certain instances has begun to implement, significant changes to U.S. fiscal, tax, trade, healthcare,immigration, foreign, and government regulatory policy. In this regard, there is significant uncertainty with respect to legislation, regulation and government policyat the federal level, as well as the state and local levels. Recent events have created a climate of heightened uncertainty and introduced new and difficult-to-quantify macroeconomic and political risks with potentially far-reaching implications. There has been a corresponding meaningful increase in the uncertaintysurrounding interest rates, inflation, foreign exchange rates, trade volumes and fiscal and monetary policy. To the extent the U.S. Congress or the currentpresidential administration implements changes to U.S. policy, those changes may impact, among other
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things, the U.S. and global economy, international trade and relations, unemployment, immigration, corporate taxes, healthcare, the U.S. regulatory environment,inflation and other areas. Although we cannot predict the impact, if any, of these changes to our business, they could adversely affect our business, financialcondition, operating results and cash flows. Until we know what policy changes are made and how those changes impact our business and the business of ourcompetitors over the long term, we will not know if, overall, we will benefit from them or be negatively affected by them.
The risks and uncertainties associated with these policy proposals and the current political climate are heightened by different political parties controlling theU.S. House of Representatives, on the one hand, and the U.S. Senate and the Executive Branch, on the other hand, and, potentially, upcoming U.S. federalelections. Additional risks arising from the differences in expressed policy preferences among the various constituencies in these branches of the U.S. governmenthas led in the past, and may lead in the future, to short term or prolonged policy impasses, which could, and has, resulted in shutdowns of the U.S. federalgovernment. U.S. federal government shutdowns, especially prolonged shutdowns, could have a significant adverse impact on the economy in general and couldimpair the ability of issuers to raise capital in the securities markets. Any of these effects could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial conditionand results of operations.
Market disruptions and other geopolitical or macroeconomic events could create market volatility that negatively impact our business, financial condition andearnings.
Periods of market volatility remain, and may continue to occur in the future, in response to various political, social and economic events both within andoutside of the United States. These conditions have resulted in, and in many cases continue to result in, greater price volatility, less liquidity, widening creditspreads and a lack of price transparency, with many securities remaining illiquid and of uncertain value. Such market conditions may adversely affect the Fund,including by making valuation of some of the Fund’s securities uncertain and/or result in sudden and significant valuation increases or declines in the Fund’sholdings. If there is a significant decline in the value of the Fund’s portfolio, this may impact the asset coverage levels for the Fund’s outstanding leverage.
Risks resulting from any future debt or other economic crisis could also have a detrimental impact on the global economic recovery, the financial condition offinancial institutions and our business, financial condition and results of operation. Market and economic disruptions have affected, and may in the future affect,consumer confidence levels and spending, personal bankruptcy rates, levels of incurrence and default on consumer debt and home prices, among other factors. Tothe extent uncertainty regarding the U.S. or global economy negatively impacts consumer confidence and consumer credit factors, our business, financial conditionand results of operations could be significantly and adversely affected. Downgrades to the credit ratings of major banks could result in increased borrowing costsfor such banks and negatively affect the broader economy. Moreover, Federal Reserve policy, including with respect to certain interest rates, may also adverselyaffect the value, volatility and liquidity of dividend- and interest-paying securities. Market volatility, rising interest rates and/or a return to unfavorable economicconditions could impair the Fund’s ability to achieve its investment objective.
The occurrence of events similar to those in recent years, such as the aftermath of the war in Iraq, instability in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Egypt, Libya, Syria,Russia, Ukraine and the Middle East, ongoing epidemics of infectious diseases (including coronavirus) in certain parts of the world, terrorist attacks in the UnitedStates and around the world, social and political discord, debt crises (such as the Greek crisis), sovereign debt downgrades, increasingly strained relations betweenthe United States and a number of foreign countries, including traditional allies, such as certain European countries, and historical adversaries, such as NorthKorea, Iran, China and Russia, and the international community generally, new and continued political unrest in various countries, such as Venezuela and Spain,the exit or potential exit of one or more countries from the EU or the EMU, continued changes in the balance of political power among and within the branches ofthe U.S. government, among others, may result in market volatility, may have long term effects on the U.S. and worldwide financial markets, and may causefurther economic uncertainties in the United States and worldwide.
The current political climate has intensified concerns about a potential trade war between China and the United States, as each country has recently imposedtariffs on the other country’s products. These actions may trigger a significant reduction in international trade, the oversupply of certain manufactured goods,substantial price reductions of goods and possible failure of individual companies and/or large segments of China’s export industry,
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which could have a negative impact on our performance. U.S. companies that source material and goods from China and those that make large amounts of sales inChina would be particularly vulnerable to an escalation of trade tensions. Uncertainty regarding the outcome of the trade tensions and the potential for a trade warcould cause the U.S. dollar to decline against safe haven currencies, such as the Japanese yen and the euro. Events such as these and their consequences aredifficult to predict and it is unclear whether further tariffs may be imposed or other escalating actions may be taken in the future. Any of these effects could have amaterial adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Changes to United States tariff and import/export regulations may have a negative effect on our portfolio companies and, in turn, harm us.
There has been ongoing discussion and commentary regarding potential significant changes to United States trade policies, treaties and tariffs. The currentadministration, along with Congress, has created significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the United States and other countries with respect tothe trade policies, treaties and tariffs. These developments, or the perception that any of them could occur, may have a material adverse effect on global economicconditions and the stability of global financial markets, and may significantly reduce global trade and, in particular, trade between the impacted nations and theUnited States. Any of these factors could depress economic activity and restrict our portfolio companies’ access to suppliers or customers and have a materialadverse effect on their business, financial condition and results of operations, which in turn would negatively impact us.
Uncertainty regarding the impact of the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union could negatively impact our business, financial condition andearnings.
Pursuant to an agreement setting out the terms on which the United Kingdom may leave the European Union (the “EU,” and the United Kingdom’swithdrawal therefrom, “Brexit”) the United Kingdom formally withdrew from the EU, effective January 31, 2020, and entered into an 11-month transition period.During this transition period, the United Kingdom is expected to renegotiate its political and economic relationships with the EU and other countries. As a result ofthe original referendum and other geopolitical developments leading to Brexit, the financial markets experienced increased levels of volatility and it is likely that,in the near term, Brexit will continue to bring about higher levels of uncertainty and volatility. During this period of uncertainty, the negative impact on not onlythe United Kingdom and European economies, but the broader global economy, could be significant, potentially resulting in increased market and currencyvolatility (including volatility of the value of the British pound sterling relative to the United States dollar and other currencies and volatility in global currencymarkets generally), and illiquidity and lower economic growth for companies that rely significantly on Europe for their business activities and revenues. Additionalrisks associated with Brexit include macroeconomic risk to the United Kingdom and European economies, impetus for further disintegration of the EU and relatedpolitical stresses (including those related to sentiment against cross border capital movements and activities of investors like us), prejudice to financial servicesbusinesses that are conducting business in the EU and which are based in the United Kingdom, legal uncertainty regarding achievement of compliance withapplicable financial and commercial laws and regulations, and the unavailability of timely information as to expected legal, tax and other regimes. Any furtherexits from the EU, or the possibility of such exits, would likely cause additional market disruption globally and introduce new legal and regulatory uncertainties.
Rising interest rates may adversely affect the value of our portfolio investments which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition andresults of operations.
Our debt investments may be based on floating rates, such as London Interbank Offer Rate (“LIBOR”), EURIBOR, the Federal Funds Rate or the Prime Rate.General interest rate fluctuations may have a substantial negative impact on our investments, the value of our common stock and our rate of return on investedcapital. A reduction in the interest rates on new investments relative to interest rates on current investments could also have an adverse impact on our net interestincome. An increase in interest rates could decrease the value of any investments we hold which earn fixed interest rates, including subordinated loans, senior andjunior secured and unsecured debt securities and loans and high yield bonds, and also could increase our interest expense, thereby decreasing our net income. Also,an increase in interest rates available to investors could make investment in our common stock less attractive if we are not able to increase our dividend rate, whichcould reduce the value of our common stock.
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Because we have borrowed money, and may issue preferred stock to finance investments, our net investment income depends, in part, upon the differencebetween the rate at which we borrow funds or pay distributions on preferred stock and the rate that our investments yield. As a result, we can offer no assurancethat a significant change in market interest rates will not have a material adverse effect on our net investment income. In periods of rising interest rates, our cost offunds would increase except to the extent we have issued fixed rate debt or preferred stock, which could reduce our net investment income.
You should also be aware that a change in the general level of interest rates can be expected to lead to a change in the interest rate we receive on many of ourdebt investments. Accordingly, a change in the interest rate could make it easier for us to meet or exceed the performance threshold and may result in a substantialincrease in the amount of incentive compensation payable to our Advisor with respect to the portion of the incentive compensation based on income.
Changes relating to the LIBOR calculation process, the phase-out of LIBOR and the use of replacement rates for LIBOR may adversely affect the value of ourportfolio securities.
In July 2017, the head of the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority announced the desire to phase out the use of LIBOR by the end of 2021. Theannouncement indicates that the continuation of LIBOR on the current basis cannot and will not be guaranteed after 2021. It is impossible to predict whether and towhat extent banks will continue to provide LIBOR submissions to the administrator of LIBOR or whether any additional reforms to LIBOR may be enacted in theUnited Kingdom or elsewhere. Actions by the British Bankers’ Association, the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority or other regulators or lawenforcement agencies as a result of these or future events, may result in changes to the manner in which LIBOR is determined. In addition, any further changes orreforms to the determination or supervision of LIBOR may result in a sudden or prolonged increase or decrease in reported LIBOR, which could have an adverseimpact on the market for LIBOR-based securities or the value of our portfolio of LIBOR-indexed, floating-rate debt securities
At this time, no consensus exists as to what rate or rates will become accepted alternatives to LIBOR, although the U.S. Federal Reserve, in connection withthe Alternative Reference Rates Committee, a steering committee comprised of large U.S. financial institutions, is considering replacing U.S. dollar LIBOR withthe Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”). Given the inherent differences between LIBOR and SOFR, or any other alternative benchmark rate that may beestablished, there are many uncertainties regarding a transition from LIBOR, including but not limited to the need to amend all contracts with LIBOR as thereferenced rate and how this will impact the cost of variable rate debt and certain derivative financial instruments. In addition, SOFR or other replacement ratesmay fail to gain market acceptance. Any failure of SOFR or alternative reference rates to gain market acceptance could adversely affect the return on, value of andmarket for securities linked to such rates.
Risks related to our business
We may not replicate the Company’s historical performance or the historical performance of other entities managed or supported by the Advisor.
We may not be able to replicate the Company’s historical performance or the historical performance of the Advisor’s investments, and our investment returnsmay be substantially lower than the returns achieved by the Company in the past. We can offer no assurance that the Advisor will be able to continue to implementour investment objective with the same degree of success as it has had in the past.
Our business model depends upon the development and maintenance of strong referral relationships with other asset managers and investment banking firms.
We are substantially dependent on our informal relationships, which we use to help identify and gain access to investment opportunities. If we fail to maintainour relationships with key firms, or if we fail to establish strong referral relationships with other firms or other sources of investment opportunities, we will not beable to grow our portfolio of equity investments and achieve our investment objective. In addition, persons with whom we have informal relationships are notobligated to inform us of investment opportunities, and therefore such relationships may not lead to the origination of equity or other investments. Any loss ordiminishment of such relationships could effectively reduce our ability to identify attractive portfolio companies that meet our investment criteria, either for
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direct equity investments or for investments through private secondary market transactions or other secondary transactions.
The Advisor’s liability is limited under the investment management agreement, and we are required to indemnify the Advisor against certain liabilities, whichmay lead the Advisor to act in a riskier manner on our behalf than it would when acting for its own account.
The Advisor has not assumed any responsibility to us other than to render the services described in the investment management agreement, and it will not beresponsible for any action of our board of directors in declining to follow the Advisor’s advice or recommendations. Pursuant to the investment managementagreement, the Advisor and its members and their respective officers, managers, partners, agents, employees, controlling persons and members and any otherperson or entity affiliated with it will not be liable to us for their acts under the investment management agreement, absent willful misfeasance, bad faith, grossnegligence or reckless disregard in the performance of their duties. We have agreed to indemnify, defend and protect the Advisor and its members and theirrespective officers, managers, partners, agents, employees, controlling persons and members and any other person or entity affiliated with it with respect to alldamages, liabilities, costs and expenses resulting from acts of the Advisor not arising out of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard inthe performance of their duties under the investment and management agreement. These protections may lead the Advisor to act in a riskier manner when acting onour behalf than it would when acting for its own account.
We may suffer credit losses.
Investment in middle-market companies is highly speculative and involves a high degree of risk of credit loss, and therefore our securities may not be suitablefor someone with a low tolerance for risk. These risks are likely to increase during an economic recession.
Our use of borrowed funds, including under the Leverage Program, to make investments exposes us to risks typically associated with leverage.
The Company borrows money, both directly and indirectly through SVCP, TCPC Funding and the SBIC. As a result:
• our common stock is exposed to incremental risk of loss and a decrease in the value of our investments would have a greater negative impact on the valueof our common stock than if we did not use leverage;
• adverse changes in interest rates could reduce or eliminate the incremental income we make with the proceeds of leverage;
• we, and indirectly our common stockholders, bear the entire cost of issuing and paying interest or dividends on any borrowed funds issued by us or oursubsidiaries; and
• our ability to pay dividends on our common stock will be restricted if our asset coverage ratio is not at least 150% and any amounts used to serviceindebtedness would not be available for such dividends.
The use of leverage creates increased risk of loss and is considered a speculative investment technique. The use of leverage magnifies the potential gains andlosses from an investment and increases the risk of loss of capital. To the extent that income derived by us from investments purchased with borrowed funds isgreater than the cost of borrowing, our net income will be greater than if borrowing had not been used. Conversely, if the income from investments purchased fromthese sources is not sufficient to cover the cost of the leverage, our net investment income will be less than if leverage had not been used, and the amount availablefor ultimate distribution to the holders of common stock will be reduced. The extent to which the gains and losses associated with leveraged investing are increasedwill generally depend on the degree of leverage employed. We may, under some circumstances, be required to dispose of investments under unfavorable marketconditions in order to maintain our leverage, thus causing us to recognize a loss that might not otherwise have occurred. In the event of a sale of investments upondefault under our borrowing arrangements, secured creditors will be contractually entitled to direct such sales and may be expected to do so in their interest, ratherthan in the interests of the holders of common stock. Holders of common stock will incur losses if the proceeds from a sale in any of the foregoing circumstancesare
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insufficient, after payment in full of amounts due and payable on leverage, including administrative expenses, to repay such holders investments in our commonstock. As a result, you could experience a total loss of your investment. Any decrease in our revenue would cause our net income to decline more than it wouldhave had we not borrowed funds and could negatively affect our ability to make distributions on our common stock. The ability to service any debt that we have ormay have outstanding depends largely on our financial performance and is subject to prevailing economic conditions and competitive pressures. There is nolimitation on the percentage of portfolio investments that can be pledged to secure borrowings. The amount of leverage that we employ at any particular time willdepend on our Advisor’s and our board of director’s assessments of market and other factors at the time of any proposed borrowing.
In addition to regulatory restrictions that restrict our ability to raise capital, the Leverage Program contains various covenants which, if not complied with,could accelerate repayment under the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility, thereby materially and adversely affecting our liquidity, financial conditionand results of operations.
Under the Leverage Program, we must comply with certain financial and operational covenants. These covenants include:
• restrictions on the level of indebtedness that we are permitted to incur in relation to the value of our assets;
• restrictions on our ability to make distributions and other restricted payments under certain circumstances;
• restrictions on extraordinary events, such as mergers, consolidation and sales of assets;
• restrictions on our ability to incur liens and incur indebtedness; and
• maintenance of a minimum level of stockholders’ equity.
In addition, by limiting the circumstances in which borrowings may occur under the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility, the credit agreements relatedto such facilities (the “Credit Agreements”) in effect provide for various asset coverage, credit quality and diversification limitations on our investments. Suchlimitations may cause us to be unable to make or retain certain potentially attractive investments or to be forced to sell investments at an inappropriate time andconsequently impair our profitability or increase losses or result in adverse tax consequences. As of February 25, 2020, we were in compliance with thesecovenants. However our continued compliance with these covenants depends on many factors, some of which are beyond our control.
Accordingly, there are no assurances that we will continue to comply with the covenants in the Credit Agreements. Failure to comply with these covenantswould result in a default under the Credit Agreements which, if we were unable to obtain a waiver from the respective lenders thereunder, could result in anacceleration of repayments under the Credit Agreements.
The SVCP Facility also has certain “key man” provisions. For example, it is an event of default if the Advisor is controlled by any person or group other than(i) a wholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc. or (ii) any two of Howard Levkowitz, Michael Leitner, Philip Tseng and Rajneesh Vig (or any replacementmanager or individual reasonably acceptable to the administrative agent and approved by the required lenders), provided that if the Advisor is no longer under thecontrol of at least two of such four individuals (or their previously approved replacements) through an event resulting in the death or disability of such individuals,the Advisor has 60 calendar days to replace such individuals with other managers or individuals reasonably acceptable to the administrative agent and approved bythe required lenders, provided further that a default (but not an event of default) shall be deemed to exist during such period.
The SVCP Facility matures on May 6, 2023, subject to extension by the lenders at the request of SVCP, and the TCPC Funding Facility matures on May 31,2023, subject to extension by the lender at the request of TCPC Funding. Any inability to renew, extend or replace the SVCP Facility and/or TCPC FundingFacility could adversely impact our liquidity and ability to find new investments or maintain distributions to our stockholders.
The SVCP Facility matures on May 6, 2023, subject to extension by the lenders at the request of SVCP. Borrowings under the SVCP Facility generally bearinterest at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.00% per annum, subject to
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certain limitations. The TCPC Funding Facility matures on May 31, 2023, subject to extension by the lender at the request of TCPC Funding. Borrowings underthe TCPC Funding Facility generally bear interest at a rate of LIBOR plus either 2.00% or 2.35% per annum, subject to certain funding requirements, plus anadministrative fee of 0.25% per annum. We do not currently know whether we will renew, extend or replace the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility upontheir maturities or whether we will be able to do so on terms that are as favorable as the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility. In addition, we will be requiredto liquidate assets to repay amounts due under the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility if we do not renew, extend or replace the SVCP Facility and TCPCFunding Facility prior to their respective maturities.
Upon the termination of the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility, there can be no assurance that we will be able to enter into a replacement facility onterms that are as favorable to us, if at all. Our ability to replace the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility may be constrained by then-current economicconditions affecting the credit markets. In the event that we are not able to replace the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility at the time of their maturity, thiscould have a material adverse effect on our liquidity and ability to fund new investments, our ability to make distributions to our stockholders and our ability toqualify as a RIC.
The creditors under the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility have a first claim on all of the Company’s assets included in the collateral for therespective facilities.
Lenders have fixed dollar claims on our assets that are superior to the claims of our common stockholders. Substantially all of our current assets have beenpledged as collateral under the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility. If an event of default occurs under either of the SVCP Facility and TCPC FundingFacility, the respective lenders would be permitted to accelerate amounts due under the respective facilities and liquidate our assets to pay off amounts owed underthe respective facilities and limitations would be imposed on us with respect to the purchase or sale of investments. Such limitations may cause us to be unable tomake or retain certain potentially attractive investments or to be forced to sell investments at an inappropriate time and consequently impair our profitability orincrease our losses or result in adverse tax consequences.
In the event of the dissolution of the Company or otherwise, if the proceeds of the Company’s assets (after payment in full of obligations to any such debtors)are insufficient to repay capital invested in us by the holders of the common stock, no other assets will be available for the payment of any deficiency. None of ourboard of directors, the Advisor or any of their respective affiliates, have any liability for the repayment of capital contributions made to the Company by theholders of common stock. Holders of common stock could experience a total loss of their investment in the Company.
Lenders under the SVCP Facility may have a veto power over the Company’s investment policies.
If a default has occurred under the SVCP Facility, the lenders under the SVCP Facility may veto changes in investment policies. The SVCP Facility also hascertain limitations on unusual types of investments such as commodities, real estate and speculative derivatives, which are not part of the Company’s investmentstrategy or policies in any event.
The SBIC may be unable to make distributions to us that will enable us to meet or maintain RIC status, which could result in the imposition of an entity-leveltax.
In order for us to continue to qualify for RIC tax treatment and to minimize corporate-level taxes, we will be required to distribute substantially all of our netordinary income and net capital gain income, including income from certain of our subsidiaries, which includes the income from the SBIC. We will be partiallydependent on the SBIC for cash distributions to enable us to meet the RIC distribution requirements. The SBIC may be limited by the Small Business InvestmentAct of 1958, and SBA regulations governing SBICs, from making certain distributions to us that may be necessary to enable us to maintain our status as a RIC. Wemay have to request a waiver of the SBA’s restrictions for the SBIC to make certain distributions to maintain our eligibility for RIC status. We cannot assure youthat the SBA will grant such a waiver and if the SBIC is unable to obtain a waiver, compliance with the SBA regulations may result in loss of RIC tax treatmentand a consequent imposition of an entity-level tax on us.
The SBIC is subject to SBA regulations, and any failure to comply with SBA regulations could have an adverse effect on our operations.
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On April 22, 2014, the SBIC received an SBIC license from the SBA. The SBIC license allows the SBIC to obtain leverage by issuing SBA-guaranteeddebentures, subject to the issuance of a capital commitment by the SBA and other customary procedures. SBA-guaranteed debentures are non-recourse, interestonly debentures with interest payable semi-annually and have a ten year maturity. The principal amount of SBA-guaranteed debentures is not required to be paidprior to maturity but may be prepaid at any time without penalty. The interest rate of SBA-guaranteed debentures is fixed on a semi-annual basis at a market-drivenspread over U.S. Treasury Notes with 10-year maturities. The SBA, as a creditor, will have a superior claim to the SBIC’s assets over our stockholders in the eventwe liquidate the SBIC or the SBA exercises its remedies under the SBA-guaranteed debentures issued by the SBIC upon an event of default.
Under current SBA regulations, a licensed SBIC can provide capital to those entities that have a tangible net worth not exceeding $19.5 million and an averageannual net income after Federal income taxes not exceeding $6.5 million for the two most recent fiscal years. In addition, a licensed SBIC must devote 25% of itsinvestment activity to those entities that have a tangible net worth not exceeding $6.0 million and an average annual net income after Federal income taxes notexceeding $2.0 million for the two most recent fiscal years. The SBA regulations also provide alternative size standard criteria to determine eligibility, whichdepend on the industry in which the business is engaged and are based on factors such as the number of employees and gross sales. The SBA regulations permitlicensed SBICs to make long term loans to small businesses, invest in the equity securities of such businesses and provide them with consulting and advisoryservices. The SBA also places certain limitations on the financing terms of investments by SBICs in portfolio companies and prohibits SBICs from providing fundsfor certain purposes or to businesses in a few prohibited industries. Compliance with SBA requirements may cause the SBIC to forego attractive investmentopportunities that are not permitted under SBA regulations.
Further, the SBA regulations require that a licensed SBIC be periodically examined and audited by the SBA to determine its compliance with the relevantSBA regulations. The SBA prohibits, without prior SBA approval, a “change of control” of an SBIC or any transfers of the capital stock of a licensed SBIC. If theSBIC fails to comply with applicable SBA regulations, the SBA could, depending on the severity of the violation, limit or prohibit its use of debentures, declareoutstanding debentures immediately due and payable, and/or limit it from making new investments. In addition, the SBA can revoke or suspend a license forwillful or repeated violation of, or willful or repeated failure to observe, any provision of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 or any rule or regulationpromulgated thereunder. The Advisor, as the SBIC’s investment adviser, does not have any previous experience managing an SBIC. Its limited experience incomplying with SBA regulations may hinder its ability to take advantage of the SBIC’s access to SBA-guaranteed debentures. Any failure to comply with SBAregulations could have an adverse effect on our operations.
SBA regulations limit the outstanding dollar amount of SBA-guaranteed debentures that may be issued by an SBIC or group of SBICs under common control.
The SBA regulations currently limit the dollar amount of SBA-guaranteed debentures that can be issued by any one SBIC to $150.0 million or to a group ofSBICs under common control to $350.0 million.
An SBIC may not borrow an amount in excess of two times (and in certain cases, up to three times) its regulatory capital. As of December 31, 2019, the SBIChad $138.0 million in SBA-guaranteed debentures outstanding. If we reach the maximum dollar amount of SBA-guaranteed debentures permitted, and if werequire additional capital, our cost of capital may increase, and there is no assurance that we will be able to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms.
Moreover, the current status of the SBIC as an SBIC does not automatically assure that the SBIC will continue to receive SBA-guaranteed debenture funding.Receipt of SBA leverage funding is dependent upon the SBIC continuing to be in compliance with SBA regulations and policies and available SBA funding. Theamount of SBA leverage funding available to SBICs is dependent upon annual Congressional authorizations and in the future may be subject to annualCongressional appropriations. There can be no assurance that there will be sufficient debenture funding available at the times desired by the SBIC.
The debentures guaranteed by the SBA have a maturity of ten years and require semi-annual payments of interest. The SBIC will need to generate sufficientcash flow to make required interest payments on the debentures.
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If the SBIC is unable to meet their financial obligations under the debentures, the SBA, as a creditor, will have a superior claim to the SBIC’s assets over ourstockholders in the event we liquidate the SBIC or the SBA exercises its remedies under such debentures as the result of a default by us.
If we incur additional leverage, it will increase the risk of investing in shares of our common stock.
The Company has indebtedness pursuant to the Leverage Program and expects, in the future, to borrow additional amounts under the SVCP Facility and TCPCFunding Facility and may increase the size of the SVCP Facility and TCPC Funding Facility or enter into other borrowing arrangements.
Illustration. The following table illustrates the effect of leverage on returns from an investment in our common stock assuming various annual returns, net ofexpenses. The calculations in the table below are hypothetical and actual returns may be higher or lower than those appearing below. The calculation is based onour level of leverage at December 31, 2019, which represented borrowings equal to 53.2% of our total assets. On such date, we also had $1,722.1 million in totalassets; $1,649.5 million in total investments; an average cost of funds of 3.84%; $915.5 million aggregate principal amount of debt outstanding; and $776.3 millionof total net assets. In order to compute the “Corresponding Return to Common Stockholders,” the “Assumed Return on Portfolio (Net of Expenses Other thanInterest)” is multiplied by the total value of our investment portfolio at December 31, 2019 to obtain an assumed return to us. From this amount, interest expensemultiplied the combined rate of interest of 3.84% by the $915.5 million of debt is subtracted to determine the return available to stockholders. The return availableto stockholders is then divided by the total value of our net assets at December 31, 2019 to determine the “Corresponding Return to Common Stockholders.”Actual interest payments may vary.
Assumed Return on Portfolio (Net of Expenses Other than Interest) -10 % -5 % 0 % 5 % 10 %Corresponding Return to Common Stockholders -26 % -15 % -5 % 6 % 17 %
The assumed portfolio return in the table is based on SEC regulations and is not a prediction of, and does not represent, our projected or actual performance.The table also assumes that we will maintain a constant level of leverage. The amount of leverage that we use will vary from time to time.
The lack of liquidity in substantially all of our investments may adversely affect our business.
Our investments generally are made and will continue to be made in private companies. Substantially all of these securities will be subject to legal and otherrestrictions on resale or will be otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities. The illiquidity of our investments may make it difficult for us to sell suchinvestments if the need arises. In addition, if we are required to liquidate all or a portion of our portfolio quickly, we may realize significantly less than the value atwhich we had previously recorded our investments. Further, we may face other restrictions on our ability to liquidate an investment in a portfolio company to theextent that we or an affiliated manager has material non-public information regarding such portfolio company.
A substantial portion of our portfolio investments may be recorded at fair value as determined using a consistently applied valuation process in accordancewith our documented valuation policy that has been reviewed and approved by our board of directors, who also approve in good faith the valuation of suchsecurities and, as a result, there may be uncertainty regarding the value of our portfolio investments.
The debt and equity investments that we make for which market quotations are not readily available will be valued at fair value as determined using aconsistently applied valuation process in accordance with our documented valuation policy that has been reviewed and approved by our board of directors, whoalso approve in good faith the valuation of such securities. Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readilyavailable market value, the fair value of our investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a readily available market valueexisted for such investments, and the differences could be material. Our net asset value could be adversely affected if determinations regarding the fair value ofthese investments were materially higher than the values ultimately realized upon the disposal of such investments.
We are exposed to risks associated with changes in interest rates.
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General interest rate fluctuations may have a substantial negative impact on our investments, the value of our common stock and our rate of return on investedcapital. A reduction in the interest rates on new investments relative to interest rates on current investments could also have an adverse impact on our netinvestment income. An increase in interest rates could decrease the value of any investments we hold that earn fixed interest rates, including subordinated loans,senior and junior secured and unsecured debt securities and loans and high-yield bonds, and also could increase our interest expense, thereby decreasing our netincome. Also, an increase in interest rates available to investors could make investment in our common stock less attractive if we are not able to increase ourdividend rate, which could reduce the value of our common stock.
The Advisor may face conflicts in allocating investment opportunities between us and certain other entities that could adversely impact our investment returns.
The Advisor and its affiliates, employees and associates currently do and in the future may manage other funds and accounts, including for other funds andaccounts in which certain holders of our common stock have investments, which we refer to as Other Advisor Accounts. Other Advisor Accounts invest in assetsthat are also eligible for purchase by us. Our investment policies, fee arrangements and other circumstances may vary from those of Other Advisor Accounts.Accordingly, conflicts may arise regarding the allocation of investments or opportunities among us and Other Advisor Accounts. In general, the Advisor and itsaffiliates will allocate investment opportunities pro rata among us and Other Advisor Accounts (assuming the investment satisfies the objectives of each) based onthe amount of committed capital each then has available. The allocation of certain investment opportunities in private placements is subject to independent directorapproval pursuant to the terms of the co-investment exemptive order applicable to us and described below. In certain cases, investment opportunities may be madeother than on a pro rata basis. For example, we may desire to retain an asset at the same time that one or more Other Advisor Accounts desire to sell it or we maynot have additional capital to invest at a time Other Advisor Accounts do. When our investment allocations are made on a basis other than pro rata our investmentperformance may be less favorable when compared to the investment performance of Other Advisor Accounts with respect to those investments. The Advisor andits affiliates intend to allocate investment opportunities to us and Other Advisor Accounts in a manner that they believe in their judgment and based upon theirfiduciary duties to be appropriate given the investment objectives, size of transaction, investable assets, alternative investments potentially available, priorallocations, liquidity, maturity, expected holding period, diversification, lender covenants and other limitations of ours and the Other Advisor Accounts. See “-Risks related to our operations as a BDC - While our ability to enter into transactions with our affiliates is restricted under the 1940 Act, we have received anexemptive order from the SEC permitting certain affiliated investments subject to certain conditions. As a result, the Advisor may face conflicts of interests andinvestments made pursuant to the exemptive order conditions could in certain circumstances adversely affect the price paid or received by us or the availability orsize of the position purchased or sold by us.”
There may be situations in which Other Advisor Accounts and the Company might invest in different securities issued by the same portfolio company. It ispossible that if the portfolio company’s financial performance and condition deteriorates such that one or both investments are or could be impaired, the Advisormight face a conflict of interest given the difference in seniority of the respective investments. In such situations, the Advisor would review the conflict on a case-by-case basis and implement procedures consistent with its fiduciary duty to enable it to act fairly to the Other Advisor Accounts and the Company in thecircumstances. Any steps by the Advisor will take into consideration the interests of each of the affected clients, the circumstances giving rise to the conflict, theprocedural efficacy of various methods of addressing the conflict and applicable legal requirements.
Moreover, the Advisor’s investment professionals, its Investment Committee (as defined below), its senior management and employees serve or may serve asofficers, directors or principals of entities that operate in the same or a related line of business. Accordingly, these individuals may have obligations to investors inthose entities or funds, the fulfillment of which might not be in our best interests or the best interests of our stockholders. In addition, certain of the personnelemployed by the Advisor or focused on our business may change in ways that are detrimental to our business.
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The Advisor and its partners, officers, directors, members, managers, employees, affiliates and agents may be subject to certain potential or actual conflicts ofinterest in connection with the activities of, and investments by, us.
The Advisor and its affiliates may spend substantial time on other business activities, including investment management and advisory activities for entitieswith the same or overlapping investment objectives, investing for their own account, financial advisory services (including services for entities in which we invest),and acting as directors, officers, creditor committee members or in similar capacities. Subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act and other applicable laws, theAdvisor and its affiliates and associates intend to engage in such activities and may receive compensation from third parties for their services. Subject to the samerequirements, such compensation may be payable by entities in which we invest in connection with actual or contemplated investments, and the Advisor mayreceive fees and other compensation in connection with structuring investments which they will share.
The Advisor’s management fee is generally based on a percentage of our total assets (other than cash or cash equivalents) and the Advisor may have conflictsof interest in connection with decisions that could affect our total assets, such as decisions as to whether to incur additional debt to increase management fees paidand to recoup the Advisor’s payment of half of the sales load in connection with our initial public offering in April 2012.
Our incentive compensation may induce our Advisor to make certain investments, including speculative investments.
The incentive compensation payable by us to the Advisor may create an incentive for the Advisor to make investments on our behalf that are risky or morespeculative than would be the case in the absence of such compensation arrangement. The way in which the incentive compensation is determined may encouragethe Advisor to increase the use of leverage or take additional risk to increase the return on our investments. Under certain circumstances, the use of leverage mayincrease the likelihood of default, which would disfavor the holders of our common stock, or of securities convertible into our common stock or warrantsrepresenting rights to purchase our common stock or securities convertible into our common stock. A rise in the general level of interest rates can be expected tolead to higher interest rates applicable to certain of our debt investments and may accordingly result in a substantial increase in the amount of incentivecompensation payable to the Advisor with respect to our cumulative investment income. Although the incentive compensation is subject to a total return hurdle, theAdvisor may have some ability to accelerate the realization of gains to obtain incentive compensation earlier than it otherwise would when it may be in our bestinterests to not yet realize gains. Our directors monitor our use of leverage and the Advisor’s management of our investment program in the best interests of ourcommon stockholders.
We may invest, to the extent permitted by law, in the securities and instruments of other investment companies, including private funds, and, to the extent weso invest, we will bear our ratable share of any such investment company’s expenses, including management and performance fees. We will also remain obligatedto pay management and incentive compensation to the Advisor with respect to the assets invested in the securities and instruments of other investment companies.With respect to each of these investments, each of our common stockholders will bear his or her share of our management and incentive compensation as well asindirectly bear the management and performance fees and other expenses of any investment companies in which we invest.
We may be obligated to pay the Advisor incentive compensation payments in excess of the amounts we would have paid if such compensation was subject toclawback arrangements.
The Advisor is entitled to incentive compensation for each fiscal quarter after January 1, 2013 in an amount equal to a percentage of our ordinary income(before deducting incentive compensation) since that date and, separately, a percentage of our realized capital gains (net of realized capital losses and unrealizeddepreciation) since that date, in each case subject to a cumulative total return requirement. If we pay incentive compensation and thereafter experience additionalrealized capital losses or unrealized capital depreciation such that we would no longer have been required to provide incentive compensation, we will not be able torecover any portion of the incentive compensation previously paid or distributed because our incentive compensation arrangements do not contain any clawbackprovisions. As a result, the incentive compensation could exceed 17.5% of our cumulative total return, depending on the timing of unrealized appreciation, netunrealized depreciation and net realized capital losses. For example, part of the incentive compensation payable or distributable by us that relates to our ordinary
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income is computed on income that may include interest that has been accrued but not yet received in cash. If a portfolio company defaults on a loan, it is possiblethat accrued interest previously used in the calculation of the incentive compensation will become uncollectible. Similarly, the income component is measuredagainst a total return limitation that includes unrealized gains. Such gains may not be realized or may be realized at a lower amount. Consequently, we may havepaid incentive compensation on income in circumstances where we otherwise would not have done so and with respect to which we do not have a clawback rightagainst the Advisor.
We are dependent upon senior management personnel of the Advisor for our future success, and if the Advisor is unable to retain qualified personnel or if theAdvisor loses any member of its senior management team, our ability to achieve our investment objective could be significantly harmed.
The success of the Company is highly dependent on the financial and managerial expertise of the Advisor. The loss of one or more of the voting members ofthe Investment Committee could have a material adverse effect on the performance of the Company. Although the Advisor and the voting members of theInvestment Committee devote a significant amount of their respective efforts to the Company, they actively manage investments for other clients and are notrequired to (and will not) devote all of their time to the Company’s affairs.
The Advisor or its affiliates may, from time to time, possess material non-public information, limiting our investment discretion.
The Advisor’s investment professionals, Investment Committee or their respective affiliates may serve as directors of, or in a similar capacity with, companiesin which we invest. In the event that material non-public information is obtained with respect to such companies, or we became subject to trading restrictions underthe internal trading policies of those companies or as a result of applicable law or regulations, we could be prohibited for a period of time from purchasing orselling the securities of such companies, and this prohibition may have an adverse effect on us and, consequently, your interests as a stockholder.
The Advisor can resign on 60 days’ notice, and we may not be able to find a suitable replacement within that time, resulting in a disruption in our operationsthat could adversely affect our financial condition, business and results of operations.
The Advisor has the right, under our investment management agreement, to resign at any time upon not more than 60 days’ written notice, whether we havefound a replacement or not. If the Advisor resigns, we may not be able to find a new investment advisor or hire internal management with similar expertise andability to provide the same or equivalent services on acceptable terms within 60 days, or at all. If we are unable to do so quickly, our operations are likely toexperience a disruption, our financial condition, business and results of operations as well as our ability to pay distributions are likely to be adversely affected andthe market price of our shares may decline. In addition, the coordination of our internal management and investment activities is likely to suffer if we are unable toidentify and reach an agreement with a single institution or group of executives having the expertise possessed by the Advisor and its affiliates. Even if we are ableto retain comparable management, whether internal or external, the integration of such management and their lack of familiarity with our investment objective mayresult in additional costs and time delays that may adversely affect our financial condition, business and results of operations.
We may in the future determine to fund a portion of our investments by issuing preferred stock, which would magnify the potential gains or losses and the risksof investing in us in the same manner as our borrowings.
The issuance of shares of preferred stock with dividend or conversion rights, liquidation preferences or other economic terms favorable to the holders ofpreferred stock could adversely affect the market price for our common stock by making an investment in the common stock less attractive. In addition, preferredstock, which is another form of leverage, has the same risks to our common stockholders as borrowings because the dividends on any preferred stock we issue mustbe cumulative. Payment of dividends and repayment of the liquidation preference of preferred stock must take preference over any dividends or other payments toour common stockholders, and holders of preferred stock are not subject to any of our expenses or losses and are not entitled to participate in any income orappreciation in excess of their stated preference (other than convertible preferred stock that converts into common stock). Lastly, under the 1940 Act, preferredstock constitutes a “senior security” for purposes of the 150% asset coverage test.
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We may experience fluctuations in our periodic operating results.
We could experience fluctuations in our periodic operating results due to a number of factors, including the interest rates payable on the debt securities weacquire, the default rate on such securities, the level of our expenses (including the interest rates payable on our borrowings), the dividend rates payable onpreferred stock we issue, variations in and the timing of the recognition of realized and unrealized gains or losses, the degree to which we encounter competition inour markets and general economic conditions. As a result of these factors, results for any period should not be relied upon as being indicative of performance infuture periods.
If we fail to maintain our status as a business development company, our business and operating flexibility could be significantly reduced.
We qualify as business development companies under the 1940 Act. The 1940 Act imposes numerous constraints on the operations of business developmentcompanies. For example, BDCs are prohibited from making any unqualifying investments unless at least 70% of their total assets are invested in qualifyinginvestments which are primarily securities of private or thinly-traded U.S. companies, cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities and other high qualitydebt investments that mature in one year or less. Failure to comply with the requirements imposed on business development companies by the 1940 Act couldcause the SEC to bring an enforcement action against us and/or expose us to claims of private litigants. In addition, any such failure could cause an event of defaultunder the Leverage Program, which could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial conditions or results of operations.
Because we intend to distribute substantially all of our income to our stockholders to maintain our status as a RIC, we will continue to need additional capitalto finance growth. If additional funds are unavailable or not available on favorable terms, our ability to grow will be impaired.
In order for the Company to qualify for the tax benefits available to RICs and to minimize payment of excise taxes, we intend to distribute to our stockholderssubstantially all of our annual taxable income, except that we may retain certain net capital gains for reinvestment in common interests of SVCP, and treat suchamounts as deemed distributions to our stockholders. If we elect to treat any amounts as deemed distributions, we must pay income taxes at the corporate rate onsuch deemed distributions on behalf of our stockholders and our stockholders will receive a tax credit for such amounts and an increase in basis. A stockholder thatis not subject to U.S. federal income tax or otherwise is not required to file a U.S. federal income tax return would be required to file a U.S. federal income taxreturn on the appropriate form in order to claim a refund for the taxes we paid. As a result of these requirements, we will likely need to raise capital from othersources to grow our business. Unfavorable economic or capital market conditions may increase our funding costs, limit our access to the capital markets or couldresult in a decision by lenders not to extend credit to us. An inability to successfully access the capital markets could limit our ability to grow our business andfully execute our business strategy and could decrease our earnings, if any.
As a BDC, we are not able to incur senior securities unless after giving effect thereto we meet a coverage ratio of total assets, less liabilities and indebtednessnot represented by senior securities, to total senior securities, which includes all of our borrowings, of at least 150%. This means that for every $100 of net assets,we may raise $200 from senior securities, such as borrowings or issuing preferred stock. These requirements limit the amount that we may borrow. On July 13,2015, we obtained exemptive relief from the SEC to permit us to exclude the debt of TCPC SBIC LP guaranteed by the SBA from our 150% asset coverage testunder the 1940 Act. The exemptive relief provides us with increased flexibility under the 150% asset coverage test by permitting the SBIC to borrow up to $150.0million more than it would otherwise be able to absent the receipt of this exemptive relief.
Because we will continue to need capital to grow our investment portfolio, these limitations may prevent us from incurring debt and require us to raiseadditional equity at a time when it may be disadvantageous to do so. While we expect we will be able to borrow and to issue additional debt securities and expectthat we will be able to issue additional equity securities, we cannot assure you that debt and equity financing will be available to us on favorable terms, or at all. Inaddition, as a business development company, we generally will not be permitted to issue equity securities priced below net asset value without stockholderapproval. If additional funds are not available to us, we could be forced to curtail or cease new investment activities and our net asset value or common stock pricecould decline.
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The highly competitive market in which we operate may limit our investment opportunities.
A number of entities compete with us to make the types of investments that we make. We compete with other BDCs, public and private funds, commercial andinvestment banks, commercial financing companies, and, to the extent they provide an alternative form of financing, private equity funds. Additionally, becausecompetition for investment opportunities generally has increased among alternative investment vehicles, such as hedge funds, those entities now invest in areas inwhich they have not traditionally invested, including making investments in middle-market private companies. As a result of these new entrants, competition forinvestment opportunities intensified over the past several years and may intensify further in the future. Some of our existing and potential competitors aresubstantially larger and have considerably greater financial, technical and marketing resources than we do. For example, some competitors may have a lower costof funds and access to funding sources that are not available to us. In addition, some of our competitors may have higher risk tolerances or different riskassessments, which could allow them to consider a wider variety of investments and establish more relationships than us. Furthermore, many of our competitors arenot subject to the regulatory restrictions and valuation requirements that the 1940 Act imposes on us as a BDC and that the Code imposes on us as a RIC. Wecannot assure you that the competitive pressures we face will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Also,as a result of this existing and potentially increasing competition, we may not be able to take advantage of attractive investment opportunities from time to time,and we can offer no assurance that we will be able to identify and make investments that are consistent with our investment objective.
We do not seek to compete primarily based on the interest rates we offer, and we believe that some of our competitors make loans with interest rates that arecomparable to or lower than the rates we offer.
We may lose investment opportunities if we do not match our competitors’ pricing, terms and structure. If we match our competitors’ pricing, terms andstructure, we may experience decreased net interest income and increased risk of credit loss. As a result of operating in such a competitive environment, we maymake investments that are on better terms to our portfolio companies than what we may have originally anticipated, which may impact our return on theseinvestments.
Our board of directors may change our operating policies and strategies without prior notice or stockholder approval.
Our board of directors has the authority to modify or waive our operating policies and strategies without prior notice and without stockholder approval. Wecannot predict the effect any changes to our current operating policies and strategies would have on our business, operating results or value of our stock.Nevertheless, the effects could adversely affect our business and impact our ability to make distributions and cause you to lose all or part of your investment.
Risks related to our investments
Our investments may be risky, and you could lose all or part of your investment.
We invest primarily in middle-market companies primarily through leveraged loans.
Risks Associated with middle-market companies. Investing in private middle-market companies involves a number of significant risks, including:
• these companies may have limited financial resources and may be unable to meet their obligations under their debt securities that we hold, which may beaccompanied by a deterioration in the value of any collateral;
• they typically have shorter operating histories, narrower product lines and smaller market shares than larger businesses, which tend to render them morevulnerable to competitors’ actions and market conditions, as well as general economic downturns;
• they are more likely to depend on the management talents and efforts of a small group of persons; therefore, the death, disability, resignation ortermination of one or more of these persons could have a material adverse impact on the portfolio company and, in turn, on us;
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• they generally have less predictable operating results, may from time to time be parties to litigation, may be engaged in rapidly changing businesses withproducts subject to a substantial risk of obsolescence, and may require substantial additional capital to support their operations, finance expansion ormaintain their competitive position;
• our executive officers, directors and the Advisor may, in the ordinary course of business, be named as defendants in litigation arising from ourinvestments in the portfolio companies;
• changes in laws and regulations, as well as their interpretations, may adversely affect their respective businesses, financial structures or prospects; and
• they may have difficulty accessing the capital markets to meet future capital needs.
Little public information exists about private middle-market companies, and we expect to rely on the Advisor’s investment professionals to obtain adequateinformation to evaluate the potential returns from investing in these companies. These companies and their financial information are not subject to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and other rules that govern disclosures and financial controls of public companies. If we are unable to uncover all material information aboutthese companies, we may not make a fully informed investment decision, and we may lose money on our investment.
Lower Credit Quality Obligations. Most of our debt investments are likely to be in lower grade obligations. The lower grade investments in which we investmay be rated below investment grade by one or more nationally-recognized statistical rating agencies at the time of investment or may be unrated but determinedby the Advisor to be of comparable quality. Debt securities rated below investment grade are commonly referred to as “junk bonds” and are considered speculativewith respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal. The debt that we invest in typically is not rated prior to our investment by any ratingagency, but we believe that if such investments were rated, they would be below investment grade (rated lower than “Baa3” by Moody’s Investors Service, lowerthan “BBB-” by Fitch Ratings or lower than “BBB-” by Standard & Poor’s). We may invest without limit in debt of any rating, as well as debt that has not beenrated by any nationally recognized statistical rating organization.
Investment in lower grade investments involves a substantial risk of loss. Lower grade securities or comparable unrated securities are consideredpredominantly speculative with respect to the issuer’s ability to pay interest and principal and are susceptible to default or decline in market value due to adverseeconomic and business developments. The market values for lower grade debt tend to be very volatile and are less liquid than investment grade securities. Forthese reasons, your investment in our company is subject to the following specific risks:
• increased price sensitivity to a deteriorating economic environment;
• greater risk of loss due to default or declining credit quality;
• adverse company specific events are more likely to render the issuer unable to make interest and/or principal payments; and
• if a negative perception of the lower grade debt market develops, the price and liquidity of lower grade securities may be depressed. This negativeperception could last for a significant period of time.
Adverse changes in economic conditions are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of a lower grade issuer to make principal payments and interestpayments than an investment grade issuer. The principal amount of lower grade securities outstanding has proliferated in the past decade as an increasing numberof issuers have used lower grade securities for corporate financing. An economic downturn could severely affect the ability of highly leveraged issuers to servicetheir debt obligations or to repay their obligations upon maturity. Similarly, downturns in profitability in specific industries could adversely affect the ability oflower grade issuers in that industry to meet their obligations. The market values of lower grade debt tend to reflect individual developments of the issuer to agreater extent than do higher quality investments, which react primarily to fluctuations in the general level of interest rates. Factors having an adverse impact onthe market value of lower grade debt may have an adverse effect on our net asset value and the market value of our common stock. In addition, we may incuradditional expenses to
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the extent we are required to seek recovery upon a default in payment of principal of or interest on our portfolio holdings. In certain circumstances, we may berequired to foreclose on an issuer’s assets and take possession of its property or operations. In such circumstances, we would incur additional costs in disposing ofsuch assets and potential liabilities from operating any business acquired.
The secondary market for lower grade debt is unlikely to be as liquid as the secondary market for more highly rated debt, a factor which may have an adverseeffect on our ability to dispose of a particular instrument. There are fewer dealers in the market for lower grade securities than investment grade obligations. Theprices quoted by different dealers may vary significantly and the spread between the bid and asked price is generally larger than for higher quality instruments.Under adverse market or economic conditions, the secondary market for lower grade debt could contract further, independent of any specific adverse changes inthe condition of a particular issuer, and these instruments may become highly illiquid. As a result, we could find it more difficult to sell these instruments or maybe able to sell the securities only at prices lower than if such instruments were widely traded. Prices realized upon the sale of such lower rated or unrated securities,under these circumstances, may be less than the prices used in calculating our net asset value.
Since investors generally perceive that there are greater risks associated with lower grade debt of the type in which we may invest a portion of our assets, theyields and prices of such debt may tend to fluctuate more than those for higher rated instruments. In the lower quality segments of the fixed income markets,changes in perceptions of issuers’ creditworthiness tend to occur more frequently and in a more pronounced manner than do changes in higher quality segments ofthe income securities market, resulting in greater yield and price volatility.
Distressed Debt Securities Risk. At times, distressed debt obligations may not produce income and may require us to bear certain extraordinary expenses(including legal, accounting, valuation and transaction expenses) in order to protect and recover our investment. Therefore, our ability to achieve current incomefor our stockholders may be diminished. We also will be subject to significant uncertainty as to when and in what manner and for what value the distressed debt weinvest in will eventually be satisfied (e.g., through a liquidation of the obligor’s assets, an exchange offer or plan of reorganization involving the distressed debtsecurities or a payment of some amount in satisfaction of the obligation). In addition, even if an exchange offer is made or plan of reorganization is adopted withrespect to distressed debt we hold, there can be no assurance that the securities or other assets received by us in connection with such exchange offer or plan ofreorganization will not have a lower value or income potential than may have been anticipated when the investment was made. Moreover, any securities receivedby us upon completion of an exchange offer or plan of reorganization may be restricted as to resale. As a result of our participation in negotiations with respect toany exchange offer or plan of reorganization with respect to an issuer of distressed debt, we may be restricted from disposing of such securities.
Payment-in-kind Interest Risk. Our loans may contain a payment-in-kind, or PIK, interest provision. PIK investments carry additional risk as holders of thesetypes of securities receive no cash until the cash payment date unless a portion of such securities is sold. If the issuer defaults the Company may obtain no return onits investment. The PIK interest, computed at the contractual rate specified in each loan agreement, is added to the principal balance of the loan and recorded asinterest income. To avoid the imposition of corporate-level tax on us, this non-cash source of income needs to be paid out to stockholders in cash distributions or,in the event that we determine to do so and in certain cases, in shares of our common stock, even though we have not yet collected and may never collect the cashrelating to the PIK interest. As a result, we may have to distribute a taxable stock dividend to account for PIK interest even though we have not yet collected thecash.
Preferred Stock Risk. To the extent we invest in preferred securities, there are special risks, including:
Deferral. Preferred securities may include provisions that permit the issuer, at its discretion, to defer distributions for a stated period without any adverseconsequences to the issuer. If we own a preferred security that is deferring its distributions, we may be required to report income for tax purposes although wehave not yet received such income.
Subordination. Preferred securities are subordinated to bonds and other debt instruments in a company’s capital structure in terms of priority to corporateincome and liquidation payments, and therefore will be subject to greater credit risk than more senior debt instruments.
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Liquidity. Preferred securities may be substantially less liquid than many other securities, such as common stocks or U.S. Government securities.
Limited Voting Rights. Generally, preferred security holders have no voting rights with respect to the issuing company unless preferred dividends have been inarrears for a specified number of periods, at which time the preferred security holders may elect a number of directors to the issuer’s board. Generally, once allthe arrearages have been paid, the preferred security holders no longer have voting rights.
Equity Security Risk. We may have exposure to equity securities. Although equity securities have historically generated higher average total returns than fixed-income securities over the long term, equity securities also have experienced significantly more volatility in those returns. The equity securities that we acquiremay fail to appreciate and may decline in value or become worthless.
Hedging Transactions. We may employ hedging techniques to minimize currency exchange rate risks or interest rate risks, but we can offer no assurance thatsuch strategies will be effective. If we engage in hedging transactions, we may expose ourselves to risks associated with such transactions. Hedging against adecline in the values of our portfolio positions does not eliminate the possibility of fluctuations in the values of such positions or prevent losses if the values ofsuch positions decline. Moreover, it may not be possible to hedge against an exchange rate or interest rate fluctuation that is so generally anticipated that we are notable to enter into a hedging transaction at an acceptable price. Additionally, engaging in certain hedging transactions could result in adverse tax consequences, e.g.giving rise to income that does not qualify for the 90% annual gross income requirement applicable to RICs.
Because our investments are generally not in publicly traded securities, there will be uncertainty regarding the value of our investments, which could adverselyaffect the determination of our net asset value.
Our portfolio investments will generally not be in publicly traded securities. As a result, although we expect that some of our equity investments may trade onprivate secondary marketplaces, the fair value of our direct investments in portfolio companies will often not be readily determinable. Under the 1940 Act,investments for which there are no readily available market quotations, including securities that while listed on a private securities exchange have not activelytraded, will be valued at fair value as determined using a consistently applied valuation process in accordance with our documented valuation policy that has beenreviewed and approved by our board of directors, who also approve in good faith the valuation of such securities. In connection with that approval, the board ofdirectors utilizes the services of an independent valuation firm, which prepares valuation reports on a quarterly basis for most of our portfolio investments that arenot publicly traded or for which we do not have readily available market quotations, including securities that while listed on a private securities exchange, have notactively traded. However, the board of directors retains ultimate authority as to the appropriate valuation of each such investment. The types of factors that theboard of directors takes into account in approving fair value with respect to such non-traded investments includes, as relevant and, to the extent available, theportfolio company’s earnings, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, comparison to valuations of publicly traded companies, comparisons torecent sales of comparable companies, the discounted value of the cash flows of the portfolio company and other relevant factors. This information may not beavailable because it is difficult to obtain financial and other information with respect to private companies, and even where we are able to obtain such information,there can be no assurance that it is complete or accurate. Because such valuations are inherently uncertain and may be based on estimates, our determinations offair value may differ materially from the values that would be assessed if a readily available market for these securities existed. Due to this uncertainty, our fairvalue determinations with respect to any non-traded investments we hold may cause our net asset value on a given date to materially understate or overstate thevalue that we may ultimately realize on one or more of our investments. As a result, investors purchasing our securities based on an overstated net asset value maypay a higher price than the value of our investments might warrant. Conversely, investors selling securities based on a net asset value that understates the value ofour investments may receive a lower price for their securities than the value of our investments might warrant.
Economic recessions or downturns could impair our portfolio companies and harm our operating results.
Many of our portfolio companies may be susceptible to economic slowdowns or recessions and may be unable to repay our loans during these periods.Therefore, our non-performing assets may increase and the value of our
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portfolio may decrease during these periods as we are required to record the values of our investments. Adverse economic conditions also may decrease the valueof collateral securing some of our loans and the value of our equity investments. Economic slowdowns or recessions could lead to financial losses in our portfolioand a decrease in revenues, net income and assets. Unfavorable economic conditions also could increase our funding costs, limit our access to the capital marketsor result in a decision by lenders not to extend credit to us. These events could prevent us from increasing investments and harm our operating results.
A portfolio company’s failure to satisfy financial or operating covenants imposed by us or other lenders could lead to defaults and, potentially, termination ofits loans and foreclosure on its secured assets, which could trigger cross-defaults under other agreements and jeopardize our portfolio company’s ability to meet itsobligations under the debt securities that we hold. We may incur expenses to the extent necessary to seek recovery upon default or to negotiate new terms with adefaulting portfolio company. In addition, if one of our portfolio companies were to go bankrupt, even though we or one of our affiliates may have structured ourinterest in such portfolio company as senior debt, depending on the facts and circumstances, including the extent to which we actually provided managerialassistance to that portfolio company, a bankruptcy court might re-characterize our debt holding as equity and subordinate all or a portion of our claim to claims ofother creditors.
We may not be in a position to exercise control over our portfolio companies or to prevent decisions by management of our portfolio companies that coulddecrease the value of our investments.
We do not generally intend to take controlling equity positions in our portfolio companies. To the extent that we do not hold a controlling equity interest in aportfolio company, we are subject to the risk that such portfolio company may make business decisions with which we disagree, and the stockholders andmanagement of such portfolio company may take risks or otherwise act in ways that are adverse to our interests. Due to the lack of liquidity for the debt and equityinvestments that we typically hold in our portfolio companies, we may not be able to dispose of our investments in the event we disagree with the actions of aportfolio company, and may therefore suffer a decrease in the value of our investments.
In addition, we may not be in a position to control any portfolio company by investing in its debt securities. As a result, we are subject to the risk that aportfolio company in which we invest may make business decisions with which we disagree and the management of such company, as representatives of theholders of their common equity, may take risks or otherwise act in ways that do not serve our interests as debt investors.
Our portfolio companies may incur debt that ranks equally with, or senior to, our investments in such companies.
The portfolio companies we invest in usually have, or may be permitted to incur, other debt that ranks equally with, or senior to, the debt securities in whichwe invest. By their terms, such debt instruments may provide that the holders are entitled to receive payment of interest or principal on or before the dates on whichwe are entitled to receive payments in respect of the debt securities in which we invest. Also, in the event of insolvency, liquidation, dissolution, reorganization orbankruptcy of a portfolio company, holders of debt instruments ranking senior to our investment in that portfolio company would typically be entitled to receivepayment in full before we receive any distribution in respect of our investment. After repaying such senior creditors, such portfolio company may not have anyremaining assets to use for repaying its obligation to us. In the case of debt ranking equally with debt securities in which we invest, we would have to share anydistributions on an equal and ratable basis with other creditors holding such debt in the event of an insolvency, liquidation, dissolution, reorganization orbankruptcy of the relevant portfolio company.
Additionally, certain loans that we make to portfolio companies may be secured on a second priority basis by the same collateral securing senior secured debtof such companies. The first priority liens on the collateral will secure the portfolio company’s obligations under any outstanding senior debt and may securecertain other future debt that may be permitted to be incurred by the portfolio company under the agreements governing the loans. The holders of obligationssecured by the first priority liens on the collateral will generally control the liquidation of and be entitled to receive proceeds from any realization of the collateralto repay their obligations in full before us. In addition, the value of the collateral in the event of liquidation will depend on market and economic conditions, theavailability of buyers and other factors. There can be no assurance that the proceeds, if any, from the sale or sales of all of the collateral would be sufficient tosatisfy the loan obligations secured by the second priority liens after
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payment in full of all obligations secured by the first priority liens on the collateral. If such proceeds are not sufficient to repay amounts outstanding under the loanobligations secured by the second priority liens, then we, to the extent not repaid from the proceeds of the sale of the collateral, will only have an unsecured claimagainst the portfolio company’s remaining assets, if any.
The rights we may have with respect to the collateral securing the loans we make to our portfolio companies with senior debt outstanding may also be limitedpursuant to the terms of one or more intercreditor agreements, including agreements governing “first out” and “last out” structures, that we enter into with theholders of senior debt. Under such an intercreditor agreement, at any time that obligations that have the benefit of the first priority liens are outstanding, any of thefollowing actions that may be taken in respect of the collateral will be in good faith under the direction of the holders of the obligations secured by the first priorityliens: the ability to cause the commencement of enforcement proceedings against the collateral; the ability to control the conduct of such proceedings; the approvalof amendments to collateral documents; releases of liens on the collateral; and waivers of past defaults under collateral documents. We may not have the ability tocontrol or direct such actions, even if our rights are adversely affected.
When we are a debt or minority equity investor in a portfolio company, we are often not in a position to exert influence on the entity, and other equity holdersand management of the company may make decisions that could decrease the value of our portfolio holdings.
When we make debt or minority equity investments, we are subject to the risk that a portfolio company may make business decisions with which we disagreeand the other equity holders and management of such company may take risks or otherwise act in ways that do not serve our interests. As a result, a portfoliocompany may make decisions that could decrease the value of our investment.
We may also make unsecured loans to portfolio companies, meaning that such loans will not benefit from any interest in collateral of such companies. Lienson such portfolio companies’ collateral, if any, will secure the portfolio company’s obligations under its outstanding secured debt and may secure certain futuredebt that is permitted to be incurred by the portfolio company under its secured loan agreements. The holders of obligations secured by such liens will generallycontrol the liquidation of, and be entitled to receive proceeds from, any realization of such collateral to repay their obligations in full before us. In addition, thevalue of such collateral in the event of liquidation will depend on market and economic conditions, the availability of buyers and other factors. There can be noassurance that the proceeds, if any, from sales of such collateral would be sufficient to satisfy our unsecured loan obligations after payment in full of all securedloan obligations. If such proceeds were not sufficient to repay the outstanding secured loan obligations, then our unsecured claims would rank equally with theunpaid portion of such secured creditors’ claims against the portfolio company’s remaining assets, if any.
There may be circumstances in which our debt investments could be subordinated to claims of other creditors or we could be subject to lender liability claims.
If one of our portfolio companies were to go bankrupt, even though we may have structured our interest as senior debt, depending on the facts andcircumstances, a bankruptcy court might recharacterize our debt holding as an equity investment and subordinate all or a portion of our claim to that of othercreditors. In addition, lenders can be subject to lender liability claims for actions taken by them where they become too involved in the borrower’s business orexercise control over the borrower. For example, we could become subject to a lender’s liability claim, if, among other things, we actually render significantmanagerial assistance.
Our portfolio companies may be highly leveraged.
Some of our portfolio companies may be highly leveraged, which may have adverse consequences to these companies and to us as an investor. Thesecompanies may be subject to restrictive financial and operating covenants and the leverage may impair these companies’ ability to finance their future operationsand capital needs. As a result, these companies’ flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions and to take advantage of businessopportunities may be limited. Further, a leveraged company’s income and net assets will tend to increase or decrease at a greater rate than if borrowed money werenot used. Additionally, these companies may not be able to get a full tax deduction for such borrowings.
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Our portfolio companies may prepay loans, which prepayment may reduce stated yields in the future if capital returned cannot be invested in transactions withequal or greater expected yields.
Certain of the loans we make are prepayable at any time, some of them of them at no premium to par. We cannot predict when such loans may be prepaid.Whether a loan is prepaid will depend both on the continued positive performance of the portfolio company and the existence of favorable financing marketconditions that permit such company to replace existing financing with less expensive capital. As market conditions change frequently, it is unknown when, and if,this may be possible for each portfolio company. In the case of some of these loans, having the loan prepaid early may reduce the achievable yield for theCompany in the future below the current yield disclosed for our portfolio if the capital returned cannot be invested in transactions with equal or greater expectedyields.
Our failure to make follow-on investments in our portfolio companies could impair the value of our portfolio.
Following an initial investment in a portfolio company, we may make additional investments in that portfolio company as “follow-on” investments in order to:(1) increase or maintain in whole or in part our equity ownership percentage; (2) exercise warrants, options or convertible securities that were acquired in theoriginal or subsequent financing; or (3) attempt to preserve or enhance the value of our initial investment.
We may elect not to make follow-on investments or otherwise lack sufficient funds to make those investments. Our failure to make follow-on investmentsmay, in some circumstances, jeopardize the continued viability of a portfolio company and our initial investment, or may result in a missed opportunity for us toincrease our participation in a successful operation. Even if we have sufficient capital to make a desired follow-on investment, we may elect not to make suchfollow-on investment because we may not want to increase our concentration of risk, because we prefer other opportunities, because we are inhibited bycompliance with BDC requirements or because we desire to maintain our tax status.
Our investments in foreign securities may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.
Our investment strategy contemplates that a portion of our investments may be in securities of foreign companies in order to provide diversification or tocomplement our U.S. investments, although we are required generally to invest at least 70% of our assets in companies organized and having their principal placeof business within the U.S. and its possessions. Accordingly, we may invest on an opportunistic basis in certain non-U.S. companies, including those located inemerging markets, that otherwise meet our investment criteria. In regards to the regulatory requirements for business development companies, some of theseinvestments may not qualify as investments in “eligible portfolio companies,” and thus may not be considered “qualifying assets.” “Eligible portfolio companies”generally include U.S. companies that are not investment companies and that do not have securities listed on a national exchange. If at any time less than 70% ofour gross assets are comprised of qualifying assets, including as a result of an increase in the value of any non-qualifying assets or decrease in the value of anyqualifying assets, we would generally not be permitted to acquire any additional non-qualifying assets until such time as 70% of our then current gross assets werecomprised of qualifying assets. We would not be required, however, to dispose of any non-qualifying assets in such circumstances. In addition, investing in foreigncompanies, and particularly those in emerging markets, may expose us to additional risks not typically associated with investing in U.S. companies. These risksinclude changes in exchange control regulations, political and social instability, expropriation, imposition of foreign taxes, less liquid markets and less availableinformation than is generally the case in the United States, higher transaction costs, less government supervision of exchanges, brokers and issuers, less developedbankruptcy laws, difficulty in enforcing contractual obligations, lack of uniform accounting and auditing standards and greater price volatility. These risks may bemore pronounced for portfolio companies located or operating primarily in emerging markets, whose economies, markets and legal systems may be less developed.Further, we may have difficulty enforcing our rights as equity holders in foreign jurisdictions. In addition, to the extent we invest in non-U.S. companies, we mayface greater exposure to foreign economic developments.
Although it is anticipated that most of our investments will be denominated in U.S. dollars, our investments that are denominated in a foreign currency will besubject to the risk that the value of a particular currency may change in relation to the U.S. dollar. Among the factors that may affect currency values are tradebalances, the level of short-
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term interest rates, differences in relative values of similar assets in different currencies, long-term opportunities for investment and capital appreciation andpolitical developments. We may employ hedging techniques to minimize these risks, but we can offer no assurance that we will, in fact, hedge currency risk or,that if we do, such strategies will be effective. As a result, a change in currency exchange rates may adversely affect our profitability.
Our investments in the software sector are subject to various risks, including intellectual property infringement issues and rapid technological changes, whichmay adversely affect our performance. Software is our largest industry concentration. Each industry contains certain industry related credit risks.
General risks of companies in the software industry sector include intellectual property infringement liability issues, the inability to protect software and otherproprietary technology, extensive competition and limited barriers to entry. Generally, the market for software products is characterized by rapid technologicalchange, evolving industry standards, changes in customer requirements and frequent new product introduction and enhancements. If a portfolio company in thesoftware sector cannot develop new products and enhance its current products in response to technological changes and competing products, its business andoperating results will be negatively affected. In addition, there has been a substantial amount of litigation in the software industry relating to intellectual propertyrights. Regardless of whether claims that a company is infringing patents or other intellectual property have any merit, these claims are time-consuming and costly.Moreover, a software company must monitor the unauthorized use of its intellectual property, which may be difficult and costly. A company’s failure to protect itsintellectual property could put it at a disadvantage to its competitors and harm its business, results of operations and financial condition. If a software company inwhich we invest is unable to navigate these risks, our performance may be adversely affected.
The effect of global climate change may impact the operations of our portfolio companies.
There may be evidence of global climate change. Climate change creates physical and financial risk and some of our portfolio companies may be adverselyaffected by climate change. For example, the needs of customers of energy companies vary with weather conditions, primarily temperature and humidity. To theextent weather conditions are affected by climate change, energy use could increase or decrease depending on the duration and magnitude of any changes.Increases in the cost of energy could adversely affect the cost of operations of our portfolio companies if the use of energy products or services is material to theirbusiness. A decrease in energy use due to weather changes may affect some of our portfolio companies’ financial condition, through decreased revenues. Extremeweather conditions in general require more system backup, adding to costs, and can contribute to increased system stresses, including service interruptions.
Risks related to our operations as a BDC
While our ability to enter into transactions with our affiliates is restricted under the 1940 Act, we have received an exemptive order from the SEC permittingcertain affiliated investments subject to certain conditions. As a result, the Advisor may face conflicts of interests and investments made pursuant to theexemptive order conditions could in certain circumstances adversely affect the price paid or received by us or the availability or size of the position purchasedor sold by us.
Any person that owns, directly or indirectly, 5% or more of our outstanding voting securities or is managed by the Advisor will generally be our affiliate forpurposes of the 1940 Act and we are generally prohibited from participating in certain transactions such as co-investing with, or buying or selling any security fromor to, such affiliate, absent the prior approval of our independent directors and, in some cases, of the SEC. However, the Advisor and the funds managed by theAdvisor have received an exemption from certain SEC regulations prohibiting transactions with affiliates. The exemptive order requires that certain procedures befollowed prior to making an investment subject to the order and such procedures could in certain circumstances adversely affect the price paid or received by us orthe availability or size of the position purchased or sold by us. The Advisor may also face conflicts of interest in making investments pursuant to the exemptiveorder. See “Risks related to our business - We have limited operating history as a BDC, and if the Advisor is unable to manage our investments effectively, we maybe unable to achieve our investment objective. In addition, the Advisor may face conflicts in allocating investment opportunities between us and certain otherentities that could impact our investment returns.”
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The 1940 Act also prohibits certain “joint” transactions with certain of our affiliates, which could include investments in the same portfolio company (whetherat the same or different times), without prior approval of our independent directors and, in some cases, of the SEC. We are prohibited from buying or selling anysecurity from or to any person who owns more than 25% of our voting securities and from or to certain of that person’s affiliates, or entering into prohibited jointtransactions with such persons, absent the prior approval of the SEC (other than certain limited situations pursuant to current regulatory guidance). The analysis ofwhether a particular transaction constitutes a joint transaction requires a review of the relevant facts and circumstances relating to the particular transaction. Similarrestrictions limit our ability to transact business with our officers or directors or their affiliates.
Regulations governing our operation as a BDC may limit our ability to, and the way in which we raise additional capital, which could have a material adverseimpact on our liquidity, financial condition and results of operations and may hinder the Advisor’s ability to take advantage of attractive investmentopportunities and to achieve our investment objective.
Our business may in the future require a substantial amount of capital. We may acquire additional capital from the issuance of additional shares of ourcommon stock or from the additional issuance of senior securities (including debt and preferred stock). However, we may not be able to raise additional capital inthe future on favorable terms or at all.
Our board of directors may decide to issue common stock to finance our operations rather than issuing debt or other senior securities. As a BDC, we aregenerally not able to issue our common stock at a price below net asset value without first obtaining required approvals from our stockholders and our independentdirectors. If our common stock trades at a discount to net asset value, those restrictions could adversely affect our ability to raise equity capital. Except inconnection with the exercise of warrants or the conversion of convertible securities, in any such case the price at which our securities are to be issued and sold maynot be less than a price, that in the determination of our board of directors, closely approximates the market value of such securities at the relevant time. We mayalso make rights offerings to our stockholders at prices per share less than the net asset value per share, subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act. If we raiseadditional funds by issuing more common stock or senior securities convertible into, or exchangeable for, our common stock, the percentage ownership of ourstockholders at that time would decrease, and such stockholders may experience dilution.
We may only issue senior securities up to the maximum amount permitted by the 1940 Act. On March 23, 2018, the SBCAA was signed into law, whichamong other things, amended Section 61(a) of the 1940 Act to add a new Section 61(a)(2) that reduces the asset coverage requirement applicable to BDCs from200% to 150% so long as the BDC meets certain disclosure requirements and obtains certain approvals. The reduced asset coverage requirement would permit aBDC to have a ratio of total consolidated assets to outstanding indebtedness of 2:1 as compared to a maximum of 1:1 under the 200% asset coverage requirementand would limit the BDC’s ability to issue senior securities to amounts such that its asset coverage ratio, as defined in the 1940 Act, equals at least 150%immediately after such borrowing or issuance if certain requirements are met, rather than 200%. Effective November 7, 2018, the Company’s board of directors,including a “required majority” (as such term is defined in Section 57(o) of the 1940 Act) of our board of directors, approved the Asset Coverage Ratio Election,which would have resulted (had the Company not received earlier stockholder approval) in our asset coverage requirement applicable to senior securities beingreduced from 200% to 150%, effective on November 7, 2019. On February 8, 2019, the stockholders of the Company approved the Asset Coverage Ratio Election,and, as a result, effective on February 9, 2019, our asset coverage requirement applicable to senior securities was reduced from 200% to 150%. If our assets declinein value and we fail to satisfy this test or any stricter test under the terms of our leverage instruments, we may be required to liquidate a portion of our investmentsand repay a portion of our indebtedness at a time when such sales or repayment may be disadvantageous, which could have a material adverse impact on ourliquidity, financial condition and results of operations. As of December 31, 2019, the Company’s asset coverage was 199%.
Changes in the laws or regulations governing our business or the business of our portfolio companies, or changes in the interpretations thereof or newlyenacted legislation and regulations, and any failure by us or our portfolio companies to comply with these laws or regulations, could have a material adverseeffect on our business, results of operations or financial condition of us or our portfolio companies.
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We are subject to changing rules and regulations of federal and state governments, as well as the stock exchange in which our common stock is listed. Theseentities, including the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, the SEC and The Nasdaq Global Select Market, have issued a significant number of new andincreasingly complex requirements and regulations over the course of the last several years and continue to develop additional regulations.
Changes in the laws or regulations or the interpretations of the laws and regulations that govern BDCs, RICs or non-depository commercial lenders couldsignificantly affect our operations and our cost of doing business. We are subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations and are subject to judicial andadministrative decisions that affect our operations, including our loan originations, maximum interest rates, fees and other charges, disclosures to portfoliocompanies, the terms of secured transactions, collection and foreclosure procedures and other trade practices. If these laws, regulations or decisions change, or ifwe expand our business into jurisdictions that have adopted more stringent requirements than those in which we currently conduct business, we may have to incursignificant expenses in order to comply, or we might have to restrict our operations. In addition, if we do not comply with applicable laws, regulations anddecisions, we may lose licenses needed for the conduct of our business and may be subject to civil fines and criminal penalties, any of which could have a materialadverse effect upon our business, results of operations of financial condition.
If we do not invest a sufficient portion of our assets in qualifying assets, we could be precluded from investing in certain assets or could be required to disposeof certain assets, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
As a BDC, we are prohibited from acquiring any assets other than “qualifying assets” unless, at the time of and after giving effect to such acquisition, at least70% of our total assets are qualifying assets. As of December 31, 2019, approximately $160.0 million, or approximately 9.4%, of our adjusted total assets were not“qualifying assets.” If we do not invest a sufficient portion of our assets in qualifying assets, we will be prohibited from investing in additional non-qualifyingassets, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Similarly, these rules could prevent us frommaking follow-on investments in existing portfolio companies (which could result in the dilution of our position) or could require us to dispose of investments atinopportune times in order to come into compliance with the 1940 Act. If we need to dispose of these investments quickly, it may be difficult to dispose of suchinvestments on favorable terms. For example, we may have difficulty in finding a buyer and, even if a buyer is found, we may have to sell the investments at asubstantial loss.
We will be subject to corporate-level U.S. federal income tax on all of our income if we are unable to qualify as a RIC under the Code, which could have amaterial adverse effect on our financial performance.
Although we are currently qualified as a RIC, no assurance can be given that we will be able to maintain RIC status. To maintain RIC status and be relieved ofU.S. federal income taxes on income and gains distributed to its stockholders, we generally must meet the annual distribution, source-of-income and assetdiversification requirements described below. In addition, our Leverage Program prohibits us from making distributions if doing so causes us to fail to maintain theasset coverage ratios stipulated by the 1940 Act or the Leverage Program.
To qualify as a RIC under the Code, we generally must meet certain source-of-income, asset diversification and annual distribution requirements. The annualdistribution requirement for a RIC will generally be satisfied if we distribute at least 90% of our ordinary income and net short-term capital gain in excess of netlong-term capital loss, if any, to our stockholders. Since we use debt financing, we are subject to certain asset coverage ratio requirements and other financialcovenants under the terms of the Leverage Program, and we are, in some circumstances, also subject to similar requirements under the 1940 Act. The requirementscould, under certain circumstances, restrict us from making distributions necessary to qualify as a RIC. If we are unable to obtain cash from other sources, we mayfail to qualify as a RIC and, thus, may be subject to corporate-level income tax. To qualify as a RIC, we generally must also meet certain asset diversificationrequirements at the end of each calendar quarter. Failure to meet these tests may result in our having to dispose of certain investments quickly in order to preventthe loss of RIC status. Because we anticipate that most of our investments will be in private companies, any such dispositions could be made at disadvantageousprices and may result in substantial losses.
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If we fail to qualify as a RIC for any reason and become subject to corporate-level income tax, the resulting corporate-level income taxes could substantiallyreduce our net assets, the amount of income available for distribution and the amount of our distributions.
We may have difficulty paying our required distributions if we recognize income before or without receiving cash representing such income.
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, we may include in income certain amounts that we have not yet received in cash, such as original issue discount, whichmay arise if we receive warrants in connection with the making of a loan or possibly in other circumstances, or PIK interest, which represents contractual interestadded to the loan balance and due in the future, often only at the end of the loan. Such original issue discount, which could be significant relative to our overallinvestment activities, or increases in loan balances as a result of PIK arrangements are generally included in our taxable income before we receive anycorresponding cash payments. We also may be required to include in income certain other amounts that we do not receive in cash. Similarly, newly enacted taxlegislation contains rules that may in certain other circumstances require the recognition of non-cash taxable income or may limit the deductibility of certain of ourcash expenses.
Since we may recognize taxable income before or without receiving cash representing such income or may be subject to limitations on the deductibility of ourincome, if we invest to a substantial extent in non-cash paying debt instruments we may have difficulty meeting the tax requirement to distribute at least 90% ofour ordinary income and net short-term capital gain in excess of net long-term capital loss, if any, to maintain our status as a RIC. Accordingly, we may have tosell some of our investments at times we would not consider advantageous, raise additional debt or equity capital or reduce new investment originations to meetthese distribution requirements.
There is a risk that you may not receive distributions or that our distributions may not grow over time and a portion of our distributions may be a return ofcapital.
We intend to make distributions on a quarterly basis to our stockholders out of assets legally available for distribution. We cannot assure you that we willachieve investment results that will allow us to make a specified level of cash distributions or year-to-year increases in cash distributions. Our ability to paydistributions might be adversely affected by the impact of one or more of the risk factors described in this filing. Due to the asset coverage test applicable to usunder the 1940 Act as a BDC, we may be limited in our ability to make distributions. Additionally, a portion of such distributions may include a return ofstockholder capital. Distributions in excess of our current and accumulated earnings and profits are considered nontaxable distributions and serve to reduce thebasis of our shares in the hands of the common stockholders rather than being currently taxable. As a result of the reduction of the basis of our shares, commonstockholders may incur additional capital gains taxes or may have lower capital losses.
If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or preventfraud. As a result, stockholders could lose confidence in our financial and other public reporting, which would harm our business and the trading price of ourcommon stock.
Effective internal controls over financial reporting are necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and, together with adequate disclosure controls andprocedures, are designed to prevent fraud. Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation couldcause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations. In addition, any testing by us conducted in connection with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, or thesubsequent testing by our independent registered public accounting firm (when undertaken, as noted below), may reveal deficiencies in our internal controls overfinancial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses or that may require prospective or retroactive changes to our consolidated financial statements oridentify other areas for further attention or improvement. Inferior internal controls could also cause investors and lenders to lose confidence in our reportedfinancial information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our common stock.
We may experience cyber-security incidents and are subject to cyber-security risks.
Our business operations rely upon secure information technology systems for data processing, storage and reporting. Despite careful security and controlsdesign, implementation and updating, our information technology
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systems could become subject to cyber-attacks. Cyber-attacks include, but are not limited to, gaining unauthorized access to digital systems (e.g., through“hacking” or malicious software coding) for purposes of misappropriating assets or sensitive information, corrupting data, or causing operational disruption.Cyber-attacks may also be carried out in a manner that does not require gaining unauthorized access, such as causing denial-of-service attacks on websites (i.e.,efforts to make network services unavailable to intended users). Network, system, application and data breaches could result in operational disruptions orinformation misappropriation, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Cyber-security failures or breaches by the Advisor, any sub-adviser(s) and other service providers (including, but not limited to, accountants, custodians,transfer agents and administrators), and the issuers of securities in which we invest, have the ability to cause disruptions and impact business operations, potentiallyresulting in financial losses, interference with our ability to calculate our net asset value, impediments to trading, the inability of our stockholders to transactbusiness, violations of applicable privacy and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, reimbursement or other compensation costs, oradditional compliance costs. In addition, substantial costs may be incurred in order to prevent any cyber incidents in the future. While we have established abusiness continuity plan in the event of, and risk management systems to prevent, such cyberattacks, there are inherent limitations in such plans and systemsincluding the possibility that certain risks have not been identified. Furthermore, we cannot control the cyber security plans and systems put in place by our serviceproviders and issuers in which we invest. We and our stockholders could be negatively impacted as a result.
The failure in cyber-security systems, as well as the occurrence of events unanticipated in our disaster recovery systems and management continuity planningcould impair our ability to conduct business effectively.
The occurrence of a disaster such as a cyber-attack, a natural catastrophe, an industrial accident, a terrorist attack or war, events unanticipated in our disasterrecovery systems, or a support failure from external providers, could have an adverse effect on our ability to conduct business and on our results of operations andfinancial condition, particularly if those events affect our computer-based data processing, transmission, storage, and retrieval systems or destroy data. If asignificant number of our managers were unavailable in the event of a disaster, our ability to effectively conduct our business could be severely compromised.
We depend heavily upon computer systems to perform necessary business functions. Despite our implementation of a variety of security measures, ourcomputer systems could be subject to cyber-attacks and unauthorized access, such as physical and electronic break-ins or unauthorized tampering. Like othercompanies, we may experience threats to our data and systems, including malware and computer virus attacks, unauthorized access, system failures anddisruptions. If one or more of these events occurs, it could potentially jeopardize the confidential, proprietary and other information processed and stored in, andtransmitted through, our computer systems and networks, or otherwise cause interruptions or malfunctions in our operations, which could result in damage to ourreputation, financial losses, litigation, increased costs, regulatory penalties and/or customer dissatisfaction or loss.
We are dependent on information systems and systems failures could significantly disrupt our business, which may, in turn, negatively affect the market priceof our common stock and our ability to pay dividends.
Our business is dependent on our and third parties’ communications and information systems. Further, in the ordinary course of our business we or theAdvisor may engage certain third party service providers to provide us with services necessary for our business. Any failure or interruption of those systems orservices, including as a result of the termination or suspension of an agreement with any third-party service providers, could cause delays or other problems in ourbusiness activities. Our financial, accounting, data processing, backup or other operating systems and facilities may fail to operate properly or become disabled ordamaged as a result of a number of factors including events that are wholly or partially beyond our control and adversely affect our business. There could be:
• sudden electrical or telecommunications outages;
• natural disasters such as earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes;
• disease pandemics;
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• events arising from local or larger scale political or social matters, including terrorist acts; and
• cyber-attacks.
These events, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and negatively affect the market price of our common stock and our ability topay dividends to our stockholders.
Risks related to our common stock
Shares of our common stock may trade at a discount to our net asset value per share.
Common stock of BDCs, like that of closed-end investment companies, frequently trades at a discount to current net asset value, which could adversely affectthe ability to raise capital. In the past, shares of our common stock have traded at a discount to our net asset value. The risk that shares of our common stock maytrade at a discount to our net asset value is separate and distinct from the risk that our net asset value per share may decline.
If we sell shares of our common stock at a discount to our net asset value per share, stockholders who do not participate in such sale will experience immediatedilution in an amount that may be material.
The issuance or sale by us of shares of our common stock at a discount to net asset value poses a risk of dilution to our stockholders. In particular,stockholders who do not purchase additional shares of common stock at or below the discounted price in proportion to their current ownership will experience animmediate decrease in net asset value per share (as well as in the aggregate net asset value of their shares of common stock if they do not participate at all). Thesestockholders will also experience a disproportionately greater decrease in their participation in our earnings and assets and their voting power than the increase weexperience in our assets, potential earning power and voting interests from such issuance or sale. In addition, such sales may adversely affect the price at which ourcommon stock trades.
Your interest in us may be diluted if you do not fully acquire your proportionate share of any warrants, options or other rights to subscribe for, convert to, orpurchase our common stock that we sell. In addition, in such circumstances, if the price at which we sell such warrants, options or other rights to subscribe for,convert to, or purchase our common stock, together with the exercise price, is less than our net asset value per share, then you will experience dilution of the netasset value of your shares.
We received authority from our stockholders at our 2013 annual meeting to issue warrants, options or other rights to subscribe for, convert to, or purchaseshares of our common stock, which may include convertible preferred stock and convertible debentures. In the event we issue warrants, options or other rights tosubscribe for, convert into, or purchase our common stock, stockholders who do not exercise such rights will own a smaller proportional interest in us than wouldotherwise be the case, thereby diluting the proportionate ownership interest and voting power of such stockholder. We cannot state precisely the amount of anysuch dilution in share ownership or voting power because we have no current intention of making any such offering and do not know at this time the terms oramount of such rights. The amount of dilution that a stockholder will experience could be substantial and the market price and net asset value per share of ourcommon stock could be adversely affected. Our common stockholders will also indirectly bear the expenses associated with any rights offering we may conduct,regardless of whether they elect to exercise any rights.
In addition, if the price at which we sell such warrants, options or other rights to subscribe for, convert to, or purchase our common stock, together with theexercise price, is less than the net asset value per share of our common stock, then our stockholders who do not acquire their proportionate share of such rights willexperience dilution of the aggregate net asset value of their shares as a result of the offering. The amount of any such decrease in net asset value is not predictablebecause it is not known at this time what the price of the warrants, options or other rights to subscribe for, convert into, or purchase our common stock and netasset value per share will be.
Our common stock price may be volatile and may fluctuate substantially.
As with any stock, the price of our common stock will fluctuate with market conditions and other factors. If you sell shares, the price received may be more orless than the original investment. Net asset value will be reduced immediately following our offering by the amount of the sales load and selling expenses paid byus. At our 2019
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annual meeting of stockholders held on May 30, 2019, our stockholders approved our ability, subject to the condition that the maximum number of shares salablebelow net asset value pursuant to this authority in any particular offering that could result in such dilution is limited to 25% of our then outstanding common stockimmediately prior to each such offering, to sell shares of our common stock at any level of discount from net asset value per share during the 12 month periodfollowing the date of the meeting. It should be noted that, theoretically, we may offer up to 25% of our then outstanding common stock each day. We intend toseek stockholder approval at our 2020 annual meeting to continue for an additional year our ability to issue shares of common stock below net asset value, subjectto the condition that the maximum number of shares salable below net asset value pursuant to this authority in any particular offering that could result in suchdilution is limited to 25% of our then outstanding common stock immediately prior to each such offering. Our common stock is intended for long-term investorsand should not be treated as a trading vehicle. Shares of BDCs and closed-end management investment companies, which are structured similarly to us, frequentlytrade at a discount from their net asset value. This characteristic of closed-end investment companies is separate and distinct from the risk that our net asset valueper share of common stock may decline. We cannot predict whether our common stock will trade at, above or below net asset value. This risk of loss associatedwith this characteristic of BDCs and closed-end management investment companies may be greater for investors who sell their shares in a relatively short period oftime after completion of an offering.
The market price of our common stock may fluctuate significantly.
The market price and liquidity of the market for our common stock may be significantly affected by numerous factors, some of which are beyond our controland may not be directly related to our operating performance. These factors include:
• significant volatility in the market price and trading volume of securities of BDCs or other companies in the sector in which we operate, which are notnecessarily related to the operating performance of these companies;
• price and volume fluctuations in the overall stock market from time to time;
• changes in law, regulatory policies or tax guidelines, particularly with respect to SBICs, RICs or BDCs;
• our loss of RIC status or the SBIC’s loss of SBIC status;
• changes in earnings or variations in operating results;
• changes in the value of our portfolio of investments;
• any shortfall in revenue or net income or any increase in losses from levels expected by investors or securities analysts;
• departure of key personnel from the Advisor;
• operating performance of companies comparable to us;
• short-selling pressure with respect to shares of our common stock or BDCs generally;
• future sales of our securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for our common stock or the conversion of such securities;
• uncertainty surrounding the strength of the U.S. economic recovery;
• general economic trends and other external factors; and
• loss of a major funding source.
Your interest in us may be diluted if you do not fully exercise your subscription rights in any rights offering we may conduct. In addition, if the subscriptionprice is less than our net asset value per share, then you will experience an immediate dilution of the aggregate net asset value of your shares.
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In the event we issue subscription rights, stockholders who do not fully exercise their subscription rights should expect that they will, at the completion of arights offering, own a smaller proportional interest in us than would otherwise be the case if they fully exercised their rights. We cannot state precisely the amountof any such dilution in share ownership because we do not know at this time what proportion of the shares will be purchased as a result of such rights offering.
In addition, if the subscription price is less than the net asset value per share of our common stock, then our stockholders would experience an immediatedilution of the aggregate net asset value of their shares as a result of the offering. The amount of any decrease in net asset value is not predictable because it is notknown at this time what the subscription price and net asset value per share will be on the expiration date of a rights offering or what proportion of the shares willbe purchased as a result of such rights offering. Such dilution could be substantial.
Terms relating to redemption may materially adversely affect your return on any debt securities that we may issue.
If your debt securities are redeemable at our option, we may choose to redeem your debt securities at times when prevailing interest rates are lower than theinterest rate paid on your debt securities. In addition, if your debt securities are subject to mandatory redemption, we may be required to redeem your debtsecurities also at times when prevailing interest rates are lower than the interest rate paid on your debt securities. In this circumstance, you may not be able toreinvest the redemption proceeds in a comparable security at an effective interest rate as high as your debt securities being redeemed.
Our credit ratings may not reflect all risks of an investment in our debt securities.
Our credit ratings are an assessment by third parties of our ability to pay our obligations. Consequently, real or anticipated changes in our credit ratings willgenerally affect the market value of our debt securities. Our credit ratings, however, may not reflect the potential impact of risks related to market conditionsgenerally or other factors discussed above on the market value of or trading market for the publicly issued debt securities.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None
Item 2. Properties
We do not own any real estate or other physical properties materially important to our operation. Our executive offices are located at 2951 28th Street Suite1000, Santa Monica, CA 90405, and are provided by the Advisor in accordance with the terms of the Administration Agreement. We believe that our officefacilities are suitable and adequate for our business as it is contemplated to be conducted.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
We and the Advisor are not currently subject to any material pending or threatened legal proceedings against us. From time to time, we may be a party tocertain legal proceedings incidental to the normal course of our business including the enforcement of our rights under contracts with our portfolio companies.While the outcome of these legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, we do not expect that these proceedings will have a material effect upon ourbusiness, financial condition or results of operations.
Item 4: Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not applicable.
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Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Price Range of Common Stock
Our common stock began trading on April 5, 2012 and is currently traded on The Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “TCPC.” The followingtable lists the high and low closing sale price for our common stock, the closing sale price as a percentage of net asset value, or NAV, and quarterly distributionsper share in each fiscal quarter for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018. Our common stock historically has traded at prices both above and below its netasset value. There can be no assurance, however, that such premium or discount ranges, as applicable, to net asset value will be maintained.
Premium/
(Discount) of High Sales
Price to NAV(3)
Premium/
(Discount) of Low Sales
Price to NAV(3)
Declared Dividends
Stock Price NAV(1) High(2) Low(2) Fiscal year ended December 31, 2019
First Quarter $ 14.18 $ 14.87 $ 13.21 4.9% (6.8)% $ 0.36
Second Quarter 13.64 14.77 14.05 8.3% 3.0 % 0.36
Third Quarter 13.59 14.32 13.16 5.4% (3.2)% 0.36
Fourth Quarter 13.21 14.48 13.15 9.6% (0.5)% 0.36
Fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 First Quarter $ 14.90 $ 15.46 $ 13.75 3.8% (7.7)% $ 0.36Second Quarter 14.61 14.86 14.11 1.7% (3.4)% 0.36Third Quarter 14.51 14.93 14.20 2.9% (2.1)% 0.36Fourth Quarter 14.13 14.49 12.77 2.5% (9.6)% 0.36
(1) NAV per share is determined as of the last day in the relevant quarter and therefore may not reflect the NAV per share on the date of the high and lowsales prices. The NAVs shown are based on outstanding shares at the end of each period.
(2) The High/Low Stock Price is calculated as of the closing price on a given day in the applicable quarter.
(3) Calculated as the respective High/Low Stock Price minus the quarter end NAV, divided by the quarter end NAV.
As of February 25, 2020, we had approximately 30,000 beneficial owners whose shares are held in the names of the brokers, dealers and clearing agencies,and we had 25 stockholders of record. On February 25, 2020, the last reported sales price of our common stock was $13.77 per share.
The table below sets forth each class of our outstanding securities as of February 25, 2020.
Title of Class Amount
Authorized
Amount Held by Registrant or for
its Account Amount
Outstanding
Common Stock 200,000,000 — 58,766,426
Distributions
Our quarterly dividends and distributions to common stockholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined by our board of directors.Distributions are declared considering our estimate of annual taxable income available for distribution to stockholders and the amount of taxable income carriedover from the prior year for
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distribution in the current year. We do not have a policy to pay distributions at a specific level and expect to continue to distribute substantially all of our taxableincome. Changes in investment results or focus, expense levels and other factors may have an effect on the amount of distributions we pay in the future. We cannotassure stockholders that they will receive any distributions or distributions at a particular level.
The following table summarizes the Company’s dividends declared and paid for the year ended December 31, 2019:
Date Declared Record Date Payment Date Type Amount Per Share Total Amount
February 28, 2019 March 15, 2019 March 29, 2019 Regular $ 0.36 $ 21,155,619May 8, 2019 June 14, 2019 June 28, 2019 Regular 0.36 21,155,688August 8, 2019 September 16, 2019 September 30, 2019 Regular 0.36 21,155,760November 6, 2019 December 17, 2019 December 31, 2019 Regular 0.36 21,155,837
$ 1.44 $ 84,622,904
The following table summarizes the Company’s dividends declared and paid for the year ended December 31, 2018:
Date Declared Record Date Payment Date Type Amount Per Share Total Amount
February 27, 2018 March 16, 2018 March 30, 2018 Regular $ 0.36 $ 21,184,004May 9, 2018 June 15, 2018 June 29, 2018 Regular 0.36 21,174,966August 8, 2018 September 14, 2018 September 28, 2018 Regular 0.36 21,170,272November 8, 2018 December 17, 2018 December 31, 2018 Regular 0.36 21,164,257
$ 1.44 $ 84,693,499
Tax characteristics of all dividends are reported to stockholders on Form 1099-DIV or Form 1042-S after the end of the calendar year.
We have elected to be taxed as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. In order to maintain favorable RIC tax treatment, we must distribute annually to ourstockholders at least 90% of our ordinary income and realized net short-term capital gains in excess of realized net long-term capital losses, if any, out of the assetslegally available for distribution. In order to avoid certain excise taxes imposed on RICs, we must distribute during each calendar year an amount at least equal tothe sum of:
• 98% of our ordinary income (not taking into account any capital gains or losses) for the calendar year;
• 98.2% of the amount by which our capital gains exceed our capital losses (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for the one-year period generally endingon October 31 of the calendar year; and
• certain undistributed amounts from previous years on which we paid no U.S. federal income tax.
We may, at our discretion, carry forward taxable income in excess of calendar year distributions and pay a 4% excise tax on this income. If we choose to doso, all other things being equal, this would increase expenses and reduce the amounts available to be distributed to our stockholders. We will accrue excise tax onestimated taxable income as required. In addition, although we currently intend to distribute realized net capital gains (i.e., net long-term capital gains in excess ofshort-term capital losses), if any, at least annually, out of the assets legally available for such distributions, we may in the future decide to retain such capital gainsfor investment.
We have adopted an “opt in” dividend reinvestment plan for our common stockholders. As a result, if we declare a dividend or other distribution payable incash, each stockholder that has not “opted in” to our dividend reinvestment plan will receive such dividends in cash, rather than having their dividendsautomatically reinvested in additional shares of our common stock.
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We may not be able to achieve operating results that will allow us to make dividends and distributions at a specific level or to increase the amount of thesedividends and distributions from time to time. Also, we may be limited in our ability to make dividends and distributions due to the asset coverage test applicableto us as a BDC under the 1940 Act and due to provisions in our existing and future credit facilities. If we do not distribute a certain percentage of our incomeannually, we will suffer adverse tax consequences, including possible loss of favorable RIC tax treatment. In addition, in accordance with U.S. generally acceptedaccounting principles and tax regulations, we include in income certain amounts that we have not yet received in cash, such as PIK interest, which representscontractual interest added to the loan balance that becomes due at the end of the loan term, or the accrual of original issue or market discount. Since we mayrecognize income before or without receiving cash representing such income, we may have difficulty meeting the requirement to distribute at least 90% of ourinvestment company taxable income to obtain tax benefits as a RIC and may be subject to an excise tax.
In order to satisfy the annual distribution requirement applicable to RICs, we have the ability to declare a large portion of a dividend in shares of our commonstock instead of in cash. As long as a portion of such dividend is paid in cash (which portion can be as low as 10% for dividends paid with respect to any taxableyear) and certain requirements are met, the entire distribution would be treated as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
COMPARISON OF CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN AMONG BLACKROCK TCP CAPITAL CORP., S&P 500 TOTAL RETURN INDEX AND WELLS FARGO BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COMPANY INDEX
Total Return Performance
NOTES: Assumes $100 invested April 4, 2012 in BlackRock TCP Capital Corp., the S&P 500 Total Return Index, the S&P LSTA Leveraged Loan Index and the Wells Fargo Business
Development Company Index. Assumes all dividends are reinvested on the respective dividend payment dates without commissions.
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Item 6. Selected Financial Data
The selected consolidated financial and other data below reflects the consolidated historical operations of the Company.
The selected consolidated financial data below for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015 have been derived from the consolidatedfinancial statements that were audited by our independent registered public accounting firm. The following selected financial data should be read in conjunctionwith our financial statements and related notes thereto.
Fiscal Year Ended December 31,
2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Performance Data:
Interest income $ 191,584,009 $ 189,147,814 $ 173,527,345 $ 145,018,414 $ 142,012,553
Dividend income 2,392,274 750,714 254,025 — —
Lease income 297,827 297,827 294,366 1,571,280 1,352,797
Other income 891,805 302,829 1,893,764 1,591,071 3,502,875
Total investment income 195,165,915 190,499,184 175,969,500 148,180,765 146,868,225
Interest and other debt expenses 46,398,795 40,468,761 33,091,143 25,192,990 18,895,977
Management and advisory fees 24,860,910 24,179,376 21,560,868 18,881,786 18,593,660
Incentive fee 20,307,759 23,346,164 N/A * N/A * N/A *
Other expenses 8,740,358 9,027,528 7,879,489 8,283,156 7,999,070
Total expenses 100,307,822 97,021,829 62,531,500 52,357,932 45,488,707
Net investment income before taxes 94,858,093 93,477,355 113,438,000 95,822,833 101,379,518
Excise tax expense — 92,700 36,380 569,511 876,706
Net investment income 94,858,093 93,384,655 113,401,620 95,253,322 100,502,812
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) (64,277,304) (47,908,773) (22,790,283) 114,502 (22,405,111)
Gain on repurchase of Series A preferred interests — — — — 1,675,000
Dividends to preferred interest holders — — — — (754,140)
Incentive allocation N/A * N/A * (22,680,323) (19,050,665) (19,949,734) Net increase in net assets applicable to common shareholdersresulting from operations $ 30,580,789 $ 45,475,882 $ 67,931,014 $ 76,317,159 $ 59,068,827
Per Share Data (at the end of the period):
Net increase in net assets from operations $ 0.52 $ 0.77 $ 1.19 $ 1.50 $ 1.21
Distributions declared per share (1.44) (1.44) (1.44) (1.44) (1.44)
Average weighted shares outstanding for the period 58,766,362 58,815,216 57,000,658 50,948,035 48,863,188
Assets and Liabilities Data:
Investments $ 1,649,506,895 $ 1,597,285,790 $ 1,514,532,703 $ 1,314,969,870 $ 1,182,919,725
Other assets 72,562,301 62,249,899 114,889,665 72,628,591 56,193,226
Total assets 1,722,069,196 1,659,535,689 1,629,422,368 1,387,598,461 1,239,112,951
Debt, net of unamortized issuance costs 907,802,387 805,202,192 725,200,281 571,658,862 498,205,471
Other liabilities 37,948,423 23,858,770 33,493,961 25,003,608 18,930,463
Total liabilities 945,750,810 829,060,962 758,694,242 596,662,470 517,135,934
Net assets $ 776,318,386 $ 830,474,727 $ 870,728,126 $ 790,935,991 $ 721,977,017
Investment Activity Data:
No. of portfolio companies at period end 105 95 96 90 88
Acquisitions $ 700,024,114 $ 634,002,472 $ 865,427,957 $ 587,219,129 $ 500,928,009
Sales, repayments, and other disposals $ 596,374,086 $ 512,795,715 $ 655,674,365 $ 473,457,512 $ 456,059,137 Weighted-average effective yield of debt portfolio at end ofperiod 10.3% 11.4% 11.0% 10.9% 11.0%
* Prior to January 1, 2018, Incentive fees were reflected as Incentive allocation and distribution to the General Partner.
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Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The information contained in this section should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and related notes theretoappearing elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K. Some of the statements in this report (including in the following discussion) constitute forward-lookingstatements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which relate to future events or the future performance or financialcondition of BlackRock TCP Capital Corp. (the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”), formerly known as TCP Capital Corp. The forward-looking statementscontained in this report involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including statements concerning:
• our, or our portfolio companies’, future business, operations, operating results or prospects;
• the return or impact of current and future investments;
• the impact of a protracted decline in the liquidity of credit markets on our business;
• the impact of fluctuations in interest rates on our business;
• the impact of changes in laws or regulations governing our operations or the operations of our portfolio companies;
• our contractual arrangements and relationships with third parties;
• the general economy and its impact on the industries in which we invest;
• the financial condition of and ability of our current and prospective portfolio companies to achieve their objectives;
• our expected financings and investments;
• the adequacy of our financing resources and working capital;
• the ability of our investment advisor to locate suitable investments for us and to monitor and administer our investments;
• the timing of cash flows, if any, from the operations of our portfolio companies;
• the timing, form and amount of any dividend distributions; and
• our ability to maintain our qualification as a regulated investment company and as a business development company.
We use words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “may,” “plan” and similar words to identify forward-lookingstatements. The forward looking statements contained in this annual report involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from thoseimplied or expressed in the forward-looking statements for any reason, including the factors set forth as “Risk Factors” in this report.
We have based the forward-looking statements included in this report on information available to us on the date of this report, and we assume noobligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Although we undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as aresult of new information, future events or otherwise, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you or through reports thatwe have filed or in the future may file with the SEC, including annual reports on Form 10-K, registration statements on Form N-2, quarterly reports on Form 10-Qand current reports on Form 8-K.
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Overview
The Company is a Delaware corporation formed on April 2, 2012 and is an externally managed, closed-end, non-diversified management investmentcompany. The Company was formed through the conversion of a pre-existing closed-end investment company. The Company elected to be regulated as a businessdevelopment company (“BDC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). Our investment objective is to seek to achieve hightotal returns through current income and capital appreciation, with an emphasis on principal protection. We invest primarily in the debt of middle-marketcompanies as well as small businesses, including senior secured loans, junior loans, mezzanine debt and bonds. Such investments may include an equitycomponent, and, to a lesser extent, we may make equity investments directly. Certain investment operations are conducted through the Company’s wholly-ownedsubsidiaries, Special Value Continuation Partners LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“SVCP”), TCPC Funding I, LLC (“TCPC Funding”) and TCPCSBIC, LP (the “SBIC”). SVCP was organized as a limited partnership and had elected to be regulated as a BDC under the 1940 Act through July 31, 2018. OnAugust 1, 2018, SVCP withdrew its election to be regulated as a BDC under the 1940 Act and withdrew the registration of its common limited partner interestsunder Section 12(g) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and, on August 2, 2018, terminated its general partner, Series H of SVOF/MM, LLC, and converted toa Delaware limited liability company. Series H of SVOF/MM, LLC (“SVOF/MM”) serves as the administrator (the “Administrator”) of the Company. Themanaging member of SVOF/MM is Tennenbaum Capital Partners, LLC (the “Advisor”), which serves as the investment manager to the Company, TCPC Fundingand the SBIC. On August 1, 2018, the Advisor merged with and into a wholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock Capital Investment Advisors, LLC, an indirectwholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc. with the Advisor as the surviving entity. The SBIC was organized as a Delaware limited partnership in June 2013. OnApril 22, 2014, the SBIC received a license from the United States Small Business Administration (the “SBA”) to operate as a small business investment companyunder the provisions of Section 301(c) of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958.
The Company has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a RIC, the Company will notbe taxed on its income to the extent that it distributes such income each year and satisfies other applicable income tax requirements. TCPC Funding and the SBIChave elected to be treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes. SVCP was treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes throughAugust 1, 2018 and upon its conversion to a limited liability company on August 2, 2018, and thereafter is and will be treated as a disregarded entity.
Our leverage program is comprised of $270.0 million in available debt under a revolving, multi-currency credit facility issued by SVCP (the “SVCPFacility”), $300.0 million in available debt under a senior secured revolving credit facility issued by TCPC Funding (the “TCPC Funding Facility”), $140.0 millionin convertible senior unsecured notes issued by the Company maturing in 2022 (the “2022 Convertible Notes”), $175.0 million in senior unsecured notes issued bythe Company maturing in 2022 (the “2022 Notes”), $200.0 million in senior unsecured notes issued by the Company maturing in 2024 (the “2024 Notes”) and$150.0 million in committed leverage from the SBA (the “SBA Program” and, together with the SVCP Facility, the TCPC Funding Facility, the 2022 ConvertibleNotes, the 2022 Notes and the 2024 Notes, the “Leverage Program”). Prior to being replaced by the SVCP Facility on February 26, 2018, leverage included $116.0million in available debt under a senior secured revolving credit facility issued by SVCP (the “SVCP 2018 Facility”). Prior to its maturity on December 15, 2019,leverage also included convertible senior unsecured notes due December 2019 issued by the Company (the “2019 Convertible Notes”).
To qualify as a RIC, we must, among other things, meet certain source-of-income and asset diversification requirements and timely distribute to ourstockholders generally at least 90% of our investment company taxable income, as defined by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for each year.Pursuant to this election, we generally will not have to pay corporate level taxes on any income that we distribute to our stockholders provided that we satisfy thoserequirements.
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Investments
Our level of investment activity can and does vary substantially from period to period depending on many factors, including the amount of debt andequity capital available to middle-market companies, the level of merger and acquisition activity, the general economic environment and the competitiveenvironment for the types of investments we make.
As a BDC, we are required to comply with certain regulatory requirements. For instance, we generally have to invest at least 70% of our total assets in“qualifying assets,” including securities and indebtedness of private U.S. companies, public U.S. operating companies whose securities are not listed on a nationalsecurities exchange or registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, public domestic operating companies having a market capitalization ofless than $250.0 million, cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities and high-quality debt investments that mature in one year or less. We are alsopermitted to make certain follow-on investments in companies that were eligible portfolio companies at the time of initial investment but that no longer meet thedefinition. As of December 31, 2019, 90.7% of our total assets were invested in qualifying assets.
Revenues
We generate revenues primarily in the form of interest on the debt we hold. We also generate revenue from dividends on our equity interests, capital gainson the disposition of investments, and certain lease, fee, and other income. Our investments in fixed income instruments generally have an expected maturity ofthree to five years, although we have no lower or upper constraint on maturity. Interest on our debt investments is generally payable quarterly or semi-annually.Payments of principal of our debt investments may be amortized over the stated term of the investment, deferred for several years or due entirely at maturity. Insome cases, our debt investments and preferred stock investments may defer payments of cash interest or dividends or PIK. Any outstanding principal amount ofour debt investments and any accrued but unpaid interest will generally become due at the maturity date. In addition, we may generate revenue in the form ofprepayment fees, commitment, origination, structuring or due diligence fees, end-of-term or exit fees, fees for providing significant managerial assistance,consulting fees and other investment related income.
Expenses
Our primary operating expenses include the payment of a base management fee and, depending on our operating results, incentive compensation,expenses reimbursable under the management agreement, administration fees and the allocable portion of overhead under the administration agreement. The basemanagement fee and incentive compensation remunerates the Advisor for work in identifying, evaluating, negotiating, closing and monitoring our investments.Our administration agreement with the Administrator provides that the Administrator may be reimbursed for costs and expenses incurred by the Administrator foroffice space rental, office equipment and utilities allocable to us under the administration agreement, as well as any costs and expenses incurred by theAdministrator or its affiliates relating to any non-investment advisory, administrative or operating services provided by the Administrator or its affiliates to us. Wealso bear all other costs and expenses of our operations and transactions (and the Company’s common stockholders indirectly bear all of the costs and expenses ofthe Company, SVCP, TCPC Funding and the SBIC), which may include those relating to:
• our organization;
• calculating our net asset value (including the cost and expenses of any independent valuation firms);
• interest payable on debt, if any, incurred to finance our investments;
• costs of future offerings of our common stock and other securities, if any;
• the base management fee and any incentive compensation;
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• dividends and distributions on our preferred shares, if any, and common shares;
• administration fees payable under the administration agreement;
• fees payable to third parties relating to, or associated with, making investments;
• transfer agent and custodial fees;
• registration fees;
• listing fees;
• taxes;
• director fees and expenses;
• costs of preparing and filing reports or other documents with the SEC;
• costs of any reports, proxy statements or other notices to our stockholders, including printing costs;
• our fidelity bond;
• directors and officers/errors and omissions liability insurance, and any other insurance premiums;
• indemnification payments;
• direct costs and expenses of administration, including audit and legal costs; and
• all other expenses reasonably incurred by us and the Administrator in connection with administering our business, such as the allocable portion ofoverhead under the administration agreement, including rent and other allocable portions of the cost of certain of our officers and their respective staffs.
The investment management agreement provides that the base management fee be calculated at an annual rate of 1.5% of our total assets (excluding cashand cash equivalents) payable quarterly in arrears; provided, however, that, effective as of February 9, 2019, the base management fee is calculated at an annualrate of 1.0% of our total assets (excluding cash and cash equivalents) that exceed an amount equal to 200% of the net asset value of the Company. For purposes ofcalculating the base management fee, “total assets” is determined without deduction for any borrowings or other liabilities. The base management fee is calculatedbased on the value of our total assets and net asset value (excluding cash and cash equivalents) at the end of the most recently completed calendar quarter.
Additionally, the investment management agreement provides that the Advisor or its affiliates may be entitled to incentive compensation under certaincircumstances. According to the terms of such agreement, no incentive compensation was incurred prior to January 1, 2013. Under the current investmentmanagement agreement, dated February 9, 2019, the incentive compensation equals the sum of (1) 20% of all ordinary income since January 1, 2013 throughFebruary 8, 2019 and 17.5% thereafter and (2) 20% of all net realized capital gains (net of any net unrealized capital depreciation) since January 1, 2013 throughFebruary 8, 2019 and 17.5% thereafter, less ordinary income incentive compensation and capital gains incentive compensation previously paid. However, incentivecompensation will only be paid to the extent the cumulative total return of the Company after incentive compensation and including such payment would equal orexceed a 7% annual return on daily weighted-average contributed common equity. The determination of incentive compensation is subject to limitations under the1940 Act and the Advisers Act.
Through December 31, 2017, the incentive compensation was an equity allocation to SVCP’s general partner under the LPA. Effective as of January 1,2018, the LPA was amended to remove the incentive compensation
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distribution provisions therein, and the incentive compensation became payable as a fee to the Advisor pursuant to the then-existing investment managementagreements. The amendment had no impact on the amount of the incentive compensation paid or services received by the Company.
Critical accounting policies
Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our financial statements, which have been prepared inaccordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts ofassets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Changes in the economic environment, financial markets and any other parameters used in determining such estimatescould cause actual results to differ. Management considers the following critical accounting policies important to understanding the financial statements. Inaddition to the discussion below, our critical accounting policies are further described in the notes to our financial statements.
Valuation of portfolio investments
We value our portfolio investments at fair value based upon the principles and methods of valuation set forth in policies adopted by our board of directors.Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Marketparticipants are buyers and sellers in the principal (or most advantageous) market for the asset that (i) are independent of us, (ii) are knowledgeable, having areasonable understanding about the asset based on all available information (including information that might be obtained through due diligence efforts that areusual and customary), (iii) are able to transact for the asset, and (iv) are willing to transact for the asset or liability (that is, they are motivated but not forced orotherwise compelled to do so).
Investments for which market quotations are readily available are valued at such market quotations unless the quotations are deemed not to represent fairvalue. We generally obtain market quotations from recognized exchanges, market quotation systems, independent pricing services or one or more broker-dealers ormarket makers. However, short term debt investments with original maturities of generally three months or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximatesfair value. Debt and equity securities for which market quotations are not readily available, which is the case for many of our investments, or for which marketquotations are deemed not to represent fair value, are valued at fair value using a consistently applied valuation process in accordance with our documentedvaluation policy that has been reviewed and approved by our board of directors, who also approve in good faith the valuation of such securities as of the end ofeach quarter. Due to the inherent uncertainty and subjectivity of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fairvalue of our investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a readily available market value existed for such investments andmay differ materially from the values that we may ultimately realize. In addition, changes in the market environment and other events may have differing impactson the market quotations used to value some of our investments than on the fair values of our investments for which market quotations are not readily available.Market quotations may be deemed not to represent fair value in certain circumstances where we believe that facts and circumstances applicable to an issuer, a selleror purchaser, or the market for a particular security cause current market quotations to not reflect the fair value of the security. Examples of these events couldinclude cases where a security trades infrequently causing a quoted purchase or sale price to become stale, where there is a “forced” sale by a distressed seller,where market quotations vary substantially among market makers, or where there is a wide bid-ask spread or significant increase in the bid-ask spread.
The valuation process approved by our board of directors with respect to investments for which market quotations are not readily available or for whichmarket quotations are deemed not to represent fair value is as follows:
• The investment professionals of the Advisor provide recent portfolio company financial statements and other reporting materials to independentvaluation firms approved by our board of directors.
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• Such firms evaluate this information along with relevant observable market data to conduct independent appraisals each quarter, and their preliminaryvaluation conclusions are documented and discussed with senior management of the Advisor.
• The fair value of smaller investments comprising in the aggregate less than 5% of our total capitalization may be determined by the Advisor in goodfaith in accordance with our valuation policy without the employment of an independent valuation firm.
• The audit committee of the board of directors discusses the valuations, and the board of directors approves the fair value of the investments in ourportfolio in good faith based on the input of the Advisor, the respective independent valuation firms (to the extent applicable) and the audit committeeof the board of directors.
Those investments for which market quotations are not readily available or for which market quotations are deemed not to represent fair value are valuedutilizing one or more methodologies, including the market approach, the income approach, or in the case of recent investments, the cost approach, as appropriate.The market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities (including abusiness). The income approach uses valuation techniques to convert future amounts (for example, cash flows or earnings) to a single present amount (discounted).The measurement is based on the value indicated by current market expectations about those future amounts. In following these approaches, the types of factorsthat we may take into account in determining the fair value of our investments include, as relevant and among other factors: available current market data,including relevant and applicable market trading and transaction comparables, applicable market yields and multiples, security covenants, call protectionprovisions, information rights, the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company’s ability to make payments, its earnings and discounted cashflows, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, comparisons of financial ratios of peer companies that are public, merger and acquisitioncomparables, our principal market (as the reporting entity) and enterprise values.
When valuing all of our investments, we strive to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. Inputs referbroadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may be observable or unobservable.Observable inputs are inputs that reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability developed based on market data obtainedfrom sources independent of us. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect our assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing anasset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances.
Our investments may be categorized based on the types of inputs used in their valuation. The level in the GAAP valuation hierarchy in which aninvestment falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the valuation of the investment in its entirety. Investments are classified by GAAP into thethree broad levels as follows:
Level 1 — Investments valued using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets.
Level 2 — Investments valued using other unadjusted observable market inputs, e.g. quoted prices in markets that are not active or quotes for comparableinstruments.
Level 3 — Investments that are valued using quotes and other observable market data to the extent available, but which also take into consideration one ormore unobservable inputs that are significant to the valuation taken as a whole.
As of December 31, 2019, none of our investments were categorized as Level 1, 8.3% were categorized as Level 2, 91.6% were Level 3 investmentsvalued based on valuations by independent third party sources, and 0.1% were Level 3 investments valued based on valuations by the Advisor.
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As of December 31, 2018, 0.1% of our investments were categorized as Level 1, 4.2% were categorized as Level 2, 95.6% were Level 3 investmentsvalued based on valuations by independent third party sources, and 0.1% were Level 3 investments valued based on valuations by the Advisor.
Determination of fair value involves subjective judgments and estimates. Accordingly, the notes to our consolidated financial statements express theuncertainty with respect to the possible effect of such valuations, and any change in such valuations, on the financial statements.
Revenue recognition
Interest and dividend income, including income paid in kind, is recorded on an accrual basis, when such amounts are considered collectible. Origination,structuring, closing, commitment and other upfront fees, including original issue discounts, earned with respect to capital commitments are generally amortized oraccreted into interest income over the life of the respective debt investment, as are end-of-term or exit fees receivable upon repayment of a debt investment. Otherfees, including certain amendment fees, prepayment fees and commitment fees on broken deals, are recognized as earned. Prepayment fees and similar income dueupon the early repayment of a loan or debt security are recognized when earned and are included in interest income.
Certain of our debt investments are purchased at a discount to par as a result of the underlying credit risks and financial results of the issuer, as well asgeneral market factors that influence the financial markets as a whole. Discounts on the acquisition of corporate bonds are generally amortized using the effective-interest or constant-yield method assuming there are no questions as to collectability. When principal payments on a loan are received in an amount in excess of theloan’s amortized cost, the excess principal payments are recorded as interest income.
Net realized gains or losses and net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation
We measure realized gains or losses by the difference between the net proceeds from the repayment or sale and the amortized cost basis of the investment,without regard to unrealized appreciation or depreciation previously recognized. Realized gains and losses are computed using the specific identification method.Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation reflects the change in portfolio investment values during the reporting period, including the reversal ofpreviously recorded unrealized appreciation or depreciation when gains or losses are realized.
Portfolio and investment activity
During the year ended December 31, 2019, we invested approximately $700.0 million, comprised of new investments in 25 new and 20 existing portfoliocompanies, as well as draws made on existing commitments and PIK received on prior investments. Of these investments, 94.0% were in senior secured debtcomprised of senior secured loans ($643.0 million, or 91.9% of total acquisitions) and senior secured notes ($15.0 million, or 2.1% of total acquisitions). Theremaining $42.0 million (6.0% of total acquisitions) was comprised primarily of $5.0 million(0.7% of total acquisitions) in unsecured notes and $37.0 million(5.3% of total acquisitions) in equity investments comprised primarily of $31.6 million in equity interests in portfolios of debt and lease assets and $5.4 millioninequity positions received in connection with debt investments. Additionally, we received approximately $596.4 million in proceeds from sales or repayments ofinvestments during the year ended December 31, 2019.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we invested approximately $634.0 million, comprised of new investments in 26 new and 22 existing portfoliocompanies, as well as draws made on existing commitments and PIK received on prior investments. Of these investments, 95.0% were in senior secured debtcomprised of senior secured loans ($561.4 million, or 88.5% of total acquisitions) and senior secured notes ($41.1 million, or 6.5% of total acquisitions). Theremaining $31.5 million (5.0% of total acquisitions) were comprised primarily of $20.9 million in equity interests in a portfolio of debt assets, $7.0 million inequity interests in a portfolio of lease assets, and $3.6 million in equity positions received in connection with debt investments. Additionally, we receivedapproximately $512.8 million in proceeds from sales or repayments of investments during the year ended December 31, 2018.
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At December 31, 2019, our investment portfolio of $1,649.5 million (at fair value) consisted of 105 portfolio companies and was invested 93.1% in debtinvestments, primarily in senior secured debt. In aggregate, our investment portfolio was invested 86.6% in senior secured loans, 5.2% in senior secured notes,1.3% in junior notes and 6.9% in equity investments. Our average portfolio company investment at fair value was approximately $15.7 million. Our largestportfolio company investment by value was approximately 4.4% of our portfolio and our five largest portfolio company investments by value comprisedapproximately 17.2% of our portfolio at December 31, 2019.
At December 31, 2018, our investment portfolio of $1,597.3 million (at fair value) consisted of 95 portfolio companies and was invested 94.9% in debt
investments, primarily in senior secured debt. In aggregate, our investment portfolio was invested 87.3% in senior secured loans, 4.9% in senior secured notes,2.7% in junior notes and 5.1% in equity investments. Our average portfolio company investment at fair value was approximately $16.8 million. Our largestportfolio company investment by value was approximately 3.3% of our portfolio and our five largest portfolio company investments by value comprisedapproximately 15.5% of our portfolio at December 31, 2018.
During 2019, we transitioned our industry classification system for financial reporting purposes to more closely align with the system generally used bythe Advisor for portfolio management purposes. As part of this transition, we are generally classifying the industries of our portfolio companies based on theprimary end market served rather than the product or service directed to those end markets.
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The industry composition of our portfolio at fair value at December 31, 2019 was as follows:
Industry Percent of Total
InvestmentsDiversified Financial Services 11.8%Internet Software and Services 11.2%Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods 6.9%Professional Services 6.8%Software 6.4%Media 4.9%Diversified Consumer Services 4.6%Automobiles 4.3%Diversified Telecommunication Services 3.8%IT Services 3.8%Airlines 3.3%Insurance 3.0%Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure 2.7%Consumer Finance 2.6%Building Products 2.2%Health Care Technology 2.2%Energy Equipment and Services 1.8%Thrifts and Mortgage Finance 1.7%Commercial Services and Supplies 1.7%Tobacco Related 1.6%Aerospace and Defense 1.5%Pharmaceuticals 1.5%Capital Markets 1.3%Road and Rail 1.1%Electrical Equipment 1.0%Other 6.3%
Total 100.0%
The weighted average effective yield of our debt portfolio was 10.3% at December 31, 2019 and 11.4% at December 31, 2018. The weighted averageeffective yield of our total portfolio was 9.7% at December 31, 2019 and 10.9% at December 31, 2018. At December 31, 2019, 92.1% of debt investments in ourportfolio bore interest based on floating rates, such as LIBOR, EURIBOR, the Federal Funds Rate or the Prime Rate, and 7.9% bore interest at fixed rates. Thepercentage of floating rate debt investments in our portfolio that were subject to an interest rate floor was 63.5% at December 31, 2019. At December 31, 2018,92.7% of debt investments in our portfolio bore interest based on floating rates, such as LIBOR, EURIBOR, the Federal Funds Rate or the Prime Rate, and 7.3%bore interest at fixed rates. The percentage of floating rate debt investments in our portfolio that were subject to an interest rate floor was 65.1% at December 31,2018.
Results of operations
Investment income
Investment income totaled $195.2 million, $190.5 million and $176.0 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, ofwhich $191.6 million, $189.1 million and $173.5 million were attributable to interest and fees on our debt investments, $2.4 million, $0.8 million and $0.3 millionto dividend
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income, $0.3 million, $0.3 million and $0.3 million to lease income and $0.9 million, $0.3 million and $1.9 million to other income, respectively. Included ininterest and fees on our debt investments were $11.9 million, $9.8 million and $18.6 million of non-recurring income related to prepayments for the years endedDecember 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The increase in investment income in the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the year ended December31, 2018 reflects an increase in interest income due to the larger portfolio size in addition to the increase in dividend, prepayment and other income during the yearended December 31, 2019 compared to the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase in investment income in the year ended December 31, 2018 compared tothe year ended December 31, 2017 reflects an increase in interest income due to the larger portfolio size and the impact of higher LIBOR during the year endedDecember 31, 2018 compared to the year ended December 31, 2017, partially offset by a decrease in prepayment income.
Expenses
Total operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 were $100.3 million, $97.0 million and $62.5 million, respectively,comprised of $46.4 million, $40.5 million and $33.1 million in interest expense and related fees, $24.9 million, $24.2 million and $21.6 million in basemanagement and advisory fees, $20.3 million, $23.3 million and $0.0 million in incentive fee expense, $2.3 million, $2.4 million and $2.3 million in administrativeexpenses, $1.8 million, $2.3 million and $1.5 million in legal and professional fees, and $4.6 million, $4.3 million and $4.0 million in other expenses, respectively.The increase in expenses in the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the year ended December 31, 2018 primarily reflects the higher interest expense andother costs related to the increase in outstanding debt, partially offset by the lower incentive fees due to reduction in the incentive fee rate from 20.0% to 17.5% onFebruary 9, 2019. The increase in expenses in the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to the year ended December 31, 2017 primarily reflects the inclusionof incentive fees within operating expenses during the year ended December 31, 2018 instead of being reflected as an allocation and distribution to SVCP's generalpartner during the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase in expenses also includes higher interest expense and other costs related to the increase inoutstanding debt, the higher average interest rate following the issuance of the 2022 Notes and the higher LIBOR during the period, as well as the increase inmanagement fees due to the increase in assets in the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to the year ended December 31, 2017.
Net investment income
Net investment income was $94.9 million, $93.4 million and $113.4 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. Theincrease in net investment income in the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the year ended December 31, 2018 primarily reflects the increase in totalinvestment income, partially offset by the increase in expenses in the year ended December 31, 2019. The decrease in net investment income in the year endedDecember 31, 2018 compared to the year ended December 31, 2017 primarily reflects the increase in expenses (primarily due to the inclusion of incentive feesbeginning January 1, 2018), partially offset by the increase in investment income in the year ended December 31, 2018.
Net realized and unrealized gain or loss
Net realized loss for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 was $76.6 million, $28.8 million and $20.7 million, respectively. Net realizedloss for the year ended December 31, 2019 was comprised primarily of $56.6 million on the restructuring of our investment in Fidelis and $20.5 million on thedisposition of our investment in Green Biologics. Both Fidelis and Green Biologics had generated significant income prior to their dispositions.
Net realized losses during the year ended December 31, 2018 were comprised primarily of a $25.8 million loss realization on the disposition of our loan toRM OpCo, LLC ("Real Mex") and a $4.1 million loss realization on the disposition of our loan to Globecomm Systems, Inc. ("Globecomm"). Our loan to RealMex was part of our legacy pre-IPO strategy. Both Globecomm and Real Mex had generated significant income prior to their dispositions.
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Net realized losses during the year ended December 31, 2017 were comprised primarily of a $10.1 million loss realization on the restructuring of our loanto Iracore International, Inc., a $7.1 million loss realization on the restructuring of our loan to Globecomm Systems, Inc., and a $3.5 million loss realization on therestructuring of our loan to Avanti Communications Group. The realized losses for all of these investments were triggered in connection with recapitalizations ofthese investments. These realized losses were partially offset by a $7.0 million gain on the sale of our equity in Blackline.
For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the change in net unrealized appreciation/depreciation was $12.3 million, $(19.1) million and $(2.1) million, respectively. The change in net unrealized appreciation/depreciation for the year endedDecember 31, 2019 was comprised primarily of a gain of $13.4 million on our investment in Edmentum, a gain of $6.3 million on our investment in 36th Street,and reversals of previously recognized unrealized losses of $14.9 million from Green Biologics and $3.5 million from Fidelis, partially offset by markdowns of$12.5 million on our investment in Securus and $7.7 million on our investment in AGY. The change in net unrealized appreciation/depreciation for the year endedDecember 31, 2018 was comprised primarily of markdowns of $10.0 million, $9.4 million and $8.5 million on our investments in AGY, Kawa Solar and GreenBiologics, respectively, as well as mark downs across the portfolio as a result of wider spreads, partially offset by the reversal of previously unrealized losses of$15.3 million from the disposition of our loan to Real Mex. The change in net unrealized appreciation/depreciation for the year ended December 31, 2017 wascomprised primarily of markdowns of $9.0 million and $7.1 million on Kawa Solar and Real Mex, respectively, partially offset by a $6.4 million gain on AGY andthe reversal of previously recognized unrealized gains and losses.
Incentive compensation
The decrease in incentive compensation for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the year ended December 31, 2018 was due to the reductionin the incentive fee rate from 20.0% to 17.5% on February 9, 2019. Beginning January 1, 2018, incentive compensation is paid to the Advisor as a fee and includedin operating expenses in the Statement of Operations rather than as an allocation and distribution to SVCP's general partner within the Statement of Operations.Incentive compensation included in operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 and as an allocation and distribution to SVCP's generalpartner for the years ended December 31, 2017 was $20.3 million, $23.4 million and $22.7 million, respectively. Incentive compensation for the years endedDecember 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 was paid due to our performance exceeding the total return threshold.
Income tax expense, including excise tax
The Company has elected to be treated as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code (the "Code”) and operates in a manner so as to qualifyfor the tax treatment applicable to RICs. To qualify as a RIC, the Company must, among other things, timely distribute to its stockholders generally at least 90% ofits investment company taxable income, as defined by the Code, for each year. The Company has made and intends to continue to make the requisite distributionsto its stockholders which will generally relieve the Company from U.S. federal income taxes.
Depending on the level of taxable income earned in a tax year, we may choose to carry forward taxable income in excess of current year dividenddistributions from such current year taxable income into the next tax year and pay a 4% excise tax on such income. Any excise tax expense is recorded at year endas such amounts are known. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, excise tax expenses of $0.0 million, $0.1 million and $0.1 million wererecorded, respectively, based on the amount of tax-basis ordinary income carried forward at the respective year-end.
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations
The net increase in net assets applicable to common shareholders resulting from operations was $30.6 million, $45.5 million and $67.9 million for theyears ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The lower net increase in net assets resulting from operations during the year ended December 31,2019 was primarily
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due to the higher net realized and unrealized loss during the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the year ended December 31, 2018, partially offset by theincrease in net investment income. The lower net increase in net assets applicable to common shareholders resulting from operations during the year endedDecember 31, 2018 was primarily due to the larger net realized and unrealized loss during the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to the year endedDecember 31, 2017.
Liquidity and capital resources
Since our inception, our liquidity and capital resources have been generated primarily through the initial private placement of common shares of SpecialValue Continuation Fund, LLC (the predecessor entity) which were subsequently converted to common stock of the Company, the net proceeds from the initial andsecondary public offerings of our common stock, amounts outstanding under our Leverage Program, and cash flows from operations, including investments salesand repayments and income earned from investments and cash equivalents. The primary uses of cash have been investments in portfolio companies, cashdistributions to our equity holders, payments to service our Leverage Program and other general corporate purposes.
The following table summarizes the total shares issued and proceeds received in connection with the Company’s dividend reinvestment plan for the yearsended December 31, 2019 and 2018:
2019 2018Shares Issued 819 767Average Price Per Share $ 13.98 $ 13.94Proceeds $ 11,453 $ 10,693
On February 24, 2015, the Company’s board of directors approved a stock repurchase plan (the “Company Repurchase Plan”) to acquire up to $50.0million in the aggregate of the Company’s common stock at prices at certain thresholds below the Company’s net asset value per share, in accordance with theguidelines specified in Rule 10b-18 and Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company Repurchase Plan is designed to allow the Company torepurchase its common stock at times when it otherwise might be prevented from doing so under insider trading laws. The Company Repurchase Plan requires anagent selected by the Company to repurchase shares of common stock on the Company’s behalf if and when the market price per share is at certain thresholdsbelow the most recently reported net asset value per share. Under the plan, the agent will increase the volume of purchases made if the price of the Company’scommon stock declines, subject to volume restrictions. The timing and amount of any stock repurchased depends on the terms and conditions of the CompanyRepurchase Plan, the market price of the common stock and trading volumes, and no assurance can be given that any particular amount of common stock will berepurchased. The Company Repurchase Plan was re-approved on February 20, 2020, to be in effect through the earlier of two trading days after our first quarter2020 earnings release, unless further extended or terminated by our board of directors, or such time as the approved $50.0 million repurchase amount has beenfully utilized, subject to certain conditions. The following table summarizes the total shares repurchased and amounts paid by the Company under the CompanyRepurchase Plan, including broker fees, for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018:
2019 2018Shares Repurchased 9,000 73,416Price Per Share * $ 13.96 $ 14.25Total Cost $ 125,679 $ 1,046,475______________* Weighted-average price per share
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Total leverage outstanding and available under the combined Leverage Program at December 31, 2019 were as follows:
Maturity Rate Carrying Value* Available Total
Capacity SVCP Facility 2023 L+2.00% † $ 108,497,620 $ 161,502,380 $ 270,000,000 TCPC Funding Facility 2023 L+2.00% ‡ 158,000,000 142,000,000 300,000,000 SBA Debentures 2024−2029 2.63% § 138,000,000 12,000,000 150,000,000 2022 Convertible Notes ($140 million par) 2022 4.625% 138,584,313 — 138,584,313 2022 Notes ($175 million par) 2022 4.125% 174,649,566 — 174,649,566 2024 Notes ($200 million par) 2024 3.900% 197,782,572 — 197,782,572 Total leverage 915,514,071 $ 315,502,380 $ 1,231,016,451
Unamortized issuance costs (7,711,684) Debt, net of unamortized issuance costs $ 907,802,387 ______________* Except for the convertible notes, the 2022 Notes and the 2024 Notes, all carrying values are the same as the principal amounts outstanding.† As of December 31, 2019, $8.3 million of the outstanding amount bore interest at a rate of EURIBOR + 2.00%‡ Subject to certain funding requirements§ Weighted-average interest rate, excluding fees of 0.36% or 0.35%
Under Section 61(a) of the 1940 Act, prior to March 23, 2018, a BDC was generally not permitted to issue senior securities unless after giving effectthereto the BDC met a coverage ratio of total assets, less liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities, to total senior securities, which includesall borrowings of the BDC, of at least 200%. On March 23, 2018, the Small Business Credit Availability Act (“SBCAA”) was signed into law, which among otherthings, amended Section 61(a) of the 1940 Act to add a new Section 61(a)(2) that reduces the asset coverage requirement applicable to BDCs from 200% to 150%so long as the BDC meets certain disclosure requirements and obtains certain approvals. The reduced asset coverage requirement would permit a BDC to have aratio of total consolidated assets to outstanding indebtedness of 2:1 as compared to a maximum of 1:1 under the 200% asset coverage requirement.
Effective November 7, 2018, the Company’s board of directors, including a “required majority” (as such term is defined in Section 57(o) of the 1940 Act)of our board of directors, approved the application of the modified asset coverage requirements set forth in Section 61(a)(2) of the 1940 Act, as amended by theSBCAA (the “Asset Coverage Ratio Election”), which would have resulted (had the Company not received earlier stockholder approval) in our asset coveragerequirement applicable to senior securities being reduced from 200% to 150%, effective on November 7, 2019. On February 8, 2019, the stockholders of theCompany approved the Asset Coverage Ratio Election, and, as a result, effective on February 9, 2019, our asset coverage requirement applicable to seniorsecurities was reduced from 200% to 150%. As of December 31, 2019, the Company’s asset coverage ratio was 199%.
On July 13, 2015, we obtained exemptive relief from the SEC to permit us to exclude debt outstanding under the SBA Debentures from our assetcoverage test under the 1940 Act. The exemptive relief provides us with increased flexibility under the 150% asset coverage test by permitting the SBIC to borrowup to $150.0 million more than it would otherwise be able to absent the receipt of this exemptive relief.
Net cash provided by operating activities during the year ended December 31, 2019 was $4.7 million. Our primary source of cash from operatingactivities during this period consisted of net investment income (net of non-cash income and expenses) of approximately $94.6 million, partially offset bysettlement of acquisitions of investments (net of dispositions) of $89.9 million.
Net cash provided by financing activities was $12.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2019, consisting primarily of $197.6 million from netproceeds of issuance of debt and $12.5 million of net borrowings of
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debt, reduced by $108.0 million in repayments of convertible debt, $84.6 million in regular dividends paid on common equity, $5.2 million payment of debtissuance costs and $0.1 million in repurchases of common shares.
At December 31, 2019, we had $44.8 million in cash and cash equivalents.
The SVCP Facility and the TCPC Funding Facility are secured by substantially all of the assets in our portfolio, including cash and cash equivalents, andare subject to compliance with customary affirmative and negative covenants, including the maintenance of a minimum shareholders’ equity, the maintenance of aratio of not less than 150% of total assets (less total liabilities other than indebtedness) to total indebtedness, and restrictions on certain payments and issuance ofdebt. Unfavorable economic conditions may result in a decrease in the value of our investments, which would affect both the asset coverage ratios and the value ofthe collateral securing the SVCP Facility and the TCPC Funding Facility, and may therefore impact our ability to borrow under the SVCP Facility and the TCPCFunding Facility. In addition to regulatory restrictions that restrict our ability to raise capital, the Leverage Program contains various covenants which, if notcomplied with, could accelerate repayment of debt, thereby materially and adversely affecting our liquidity, financial condition and results of operations. AtDecember 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all financial and operational covenants required by the Leverage Program.
Unfavorable economic conditions, while potentially creating attractive opportunities for us, may decrease liquidity and raise the cost of capital generally,which could limit our ability to renew, extend or replace the Leverage Program on terms as favorable as are currently included therein. If we are unable to renew,extend or replace the Leverage Program upon the various dates of maturity, we expect to have sufficient funds to repay the outstanding balances in full from ournet investment income and sales of, and repayments of principal from, our portfolio company investments, as well as from anticipated debt and equity capitalraises, among other sources. Unfavorable economic conditions may limit our ability to raise capital or the ability of the companies in which we invest to repay ourloans or engage in a liquidity event, such as a sale, recapitalization or initial public offering. The 2022 Convertible Notes, the 2022 Notes, the SVCP Facility, theTCPC Funding Facility and the 2024 Notes, mature in March 2022, August 2022, May 2023, May 2023 and August 2024, respectively. Any inability to renew,extend or replace the Leverage Program could adversely impact our liquidity and ability to find new investments or maintain distributions to our stockholders.
Challenges in the market are intensified for us by certain regulatory limitations under the Code and the 1940 Act. To maintain our qualification as a RIC,we must satisfy, among other requirements, an annual distribution requirement to pay out at least 90% of our ordinary income and short-term capital gains to ourstockholders. Because we are required to distribute our income in this manner, and because the illiquidity of many of our investments may make it difficult for usto finance new investments through the sale of current investments, our ability to make new investments is highly dependent upon external financing. While weanticipate being able to continue to satisfy all covenants and repay the outstanding balances under the Leverage Program when due, there can be no assurance thatwe will be able to do so, which could lead to an event of default.
Contractual obligations
In addition to obligations under our Leverage Program, we have entered into several contracts under which we have future commitments. Pursuant to aninvestment management agreement, the Advisor manages our day-to-day operations and provides investment advisory services to us. Payments under theinvestment management agreement are equal to a percentage of the value of our total assets (excluding cash and cash equivalents) and an incentive compensation,plus reimbursement of certain expenses incurred by the Advisor. Under our administration agreement, the Administrator provides us with administrative services,facilities and personnel. Payments under the administration agreement are equal to an allocable portion of overhead and other expenses incurred by theAdministrator in performing its obligations to us, and may include rent and our allocable portion of the cost of certain of our officers and their respective staffs. Weare responsible for reimbursing the Advisor for due diligence and negotiation expenses, fees and expenses of custodians, administrators, transfer and distributionagents, counsel and directors, insurance, filings and registrations, proxy expenses, expenses of communications to investors, compliance expenses, interest, taxes,portfolio transaction expenses, costs of responding to regulatory inquiries and reporting to regulatory authorities, costs and expenses of preparing and maintainingour books and records,
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indemnification, litigation and other extraordinary expenses and such other expenses as are approved by the directors as being reasonably related to ourorganization, offering, capitalization, operation or administration and any portfolio investments, as applicable. The Advisor is not responsible for any of theforegoing expenses and such services are not investment advisory services under the 1940 Act. Either party may terminate each of the investment managementagreement and administration agreement without penalty upon not less than 60 days’ written notice to the other.
Distributions
Our quarterly dividends and distributions to common stockholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions are declared considering ourestimate of annual taxable income available for distribution to stockholders and the amount of taxable income carried over from the prior year for distribution inthe current year. We do not have a policy to pay distributions at a specific level and expect to continue to distribute substantially all of our taxable income. Wecannot assure stockholders that they will receive any distributions or distributions at a particular level.
The following tables summarize dividends declared for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018:
Date Declared Record Date Payment Date Type Amount
Per Share Total AmountFebruary 28, 2019 March 15, 2019 March 29, 2019 Regular $ 0.36 $ 21,155,619May 8, 2019 June 14, 2019 June 28, 2019 Regular 0.36 21,155,688August 8, 2019 September 16, 2019 September 30, 2019 Regular 0.36 21,155,760November 6, 2019 December 17, 2019 December 31, 2019 Regular 0.36 21,155,837
$ 1.44 $ 84,622,904
Date Declared Record Date Payment Date Type Amount Per Share Total AmountFebruary 27, 2018 March 16, 2018 March 30, 2018 Regular $ 0.36 $ 21,184,004May 9, 2018 June 15, 2018 June 29, 2018 Regular 0.36 21,174,966August 8, 2018 September 14, 2018 September 28, 2018 Regular 0.36 21,170,272November 8, 2018 December 17, 2018 December 31, 2018 Regular 0.36 21,164,257
$ 1.44 $ 84,693,499
The following table summarizes the total shares issued in connection with our dividend reinvestment plan for the years ended December 31, 2019 and2018:
2019 2018Shares Issued 819 767Average Price Per Share $ 13.98 $ 13.94Proceeds $ 11,453 $ 10,693
We have elected to be taxed as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. In order to maintain favorable RIC tax treatment, we must distribute annually to
our stockholders at least 90% of our ordinary income and realized net short-term capital gains in excess of realized net long-term capital losses, if any, out of theassets legally available for distribution. In order to avoid certain excise taxes imposed on RICs, we must distribute during each calendar year an amount at leastequal to the sum of:
• 98% of our ordinary income (not taking into account any capital gains or losses) for the calendar year;
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• 98.2% of the amount by which our capital gains exceed our capital losses (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for the one-year period generally endingon October 31 of the calendar year; and
• certain undistributed amounts from previous years on which we paid no U.S. federal income tax.
We may, at our discretion, carry forward taxable income in excess of calendar year distributions and pay a 4% excise tax on this income. If we choose todo so, all other things being equal, this would increase expenses and reduce the amounts available to be distributed to our stockholders. We will accrue excise taxon estimated taxable income as required. In addition, although we currently intend to distribute realized net capital gains (i.e., net long-term capital gains in excessof short-term capital losses), if any, at least annually, out of the assets legally available for such distributions, we may in the future decide to retain such capitalgains for investment.
We have adopted an “opt in” dividend reinvestment plan for our common stockholders. As a result, if we declare a dividend or other distribution payablein cash, each stockholder that has not “opted in” to our dividend reinvestment plan will receive such dividends in cash, rather than having their dividendsautomatically reinvested in additional shares of our common stock.
We may not be able to achieve operating results that will allow us to make dividends and distributions at a specific level or to increase the amount ofthese dividends and distributions from time to time. Also, we may be limited in our ability to make dividends and distributions due to the asset coverage testapplicable to us as a BDC under the 1940 Act and due to provisions in our existing and future credit facilities. If we do not distribute a certain percentage of ourincome annually, we will suffer adverse tax consequences, including possible loss of favorable RIC tax treatment. In addition, in accordance with U.S. generallyaccepted accounting principles and tax regulations, we include in income certain amounts that we have not yet received in cash, such as PIK interest, whichrepresents contractual interest added to the loan balance that becomes due at the end of the loan term, or the accrual of original issue or market discount. Since wemay recognize income before or without receiving cash representing such income, we may have difficulty meeting the requirement to distribute at least 90% of ourinvestment company taxable income to obtain tax benefits as a RIC and may be subject to an excise tax.
In order to satisfy the annual distribution requirement applicable to RICs, we have the ability to declare a large portion of a dividend in shares of ourcommon stock instead of in cash. As long as a portion of such dividend is paid in cash and certain requirements are met, the entire distribution would be treated asa dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Related Parties
We have entered into a number of business relationships with affiliated or related parties, including the following:
• Each of the Company, TCPC Funding, and the SBIC has entered into an investment management agreement with the Advisor.
• The Administrator provides us with administrative services necessary to conduct our day-to-day operations. For providing these services, facilities andpersonnel, the Administrator may be reimbursed by us for expenses incurred by the Administrator in performing its obligations under theadministration agreement, including our allocable portion of the cost of certain of our officers and the Administrator’s administrative staff andproviding, at our request and on our behalf, significant managerial assistance to our portfolio companies to which we are required to provide suchassistance. The Administrator is an affiliate of the Advisor and certain other series and classes of SVOF/MM, LLC serve as the general partner ormanaging member of certain other funds managed by the Advisor.
• We have entered into a royalty-free license agreement with BlackRock and the Advisor, pursuant to which each of BlackRock and the Advisor hasagreed to grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use the name "BlackRock" and "TCP."
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The Advisor and its affiliates, employees and associates currently do and in the future may manage other funds and accounts. The Advisor and itsaffiliates may determine that an investment is appropriate for us and for one or more of those other funds or accounts. Accordingly, conflicts may arise regardingthe allocation of investments or opportunities among us and those accounts. In general, the Advisor will allocate investment opportunities pro rata among us andthe other funds and accounts (assuming the investment satisfies the objectives of each) based on the amount of committed capital each then has available. Theallocation of certain investment opportunities in private placements is subject to independent director approval pursuant to the terms of the co-investmentexemptive order applicable to us. In certain cases, investment opportunities may be made other than on a pro rata basis. For example, we may desire to retain anasset at the same time that one or more other funds or accounts desire to sell it or we may not have additional capital to invest at a time the other funds or accountsdo. If the Advisor is unable to manage our investments effectively, we may be unable to achieve our investment objective. In addition, the Advisor may faceconflicts in allocating investment opportunities between us and certain other entities that could impact our investment returns. While our ability to enter intotransactions with our affiliates is restricted under the 1940 Act, we have received an exemptive order from the SEC permitting certain affiliated investments subjectto certain conditions. As a result, we may face conflict of interests and investments made pursuant to the exemptive order conditions which could in certaincircumstances affect adversely the price paid or received by us or the availability or size of the position purchased or sold by us.
Recent Developments
From January 1, 2020 through February 25, 2020, the Company has invested approximately $65.9 million primarily in three senior secured loans with acombined effective yield of approximately 9.5%.
On January 31, 2020, Fitch Ratings initiated an investment grade rating of BBB-, with stable outlook. The Company continues to be investment graderated by both Moody’s Investor Service and S&P Global Ratings.
On February 20, 2020, the Company’s board of directors re-approved the Company Repurchase Plan, to be in effect through the earlier of two trading
days after the Company’s first quarter 2020 earnings release or such time as the approved $50.0 million repurchase amount has been fully utilized, subject tocertain conditions.
On February 26, 2020, the Company’s board of directors declared a first quarter regular dividend of $0.36 per share payable on March 31, 2020 to
stockholders of record as of the close of business on March 17, 2020.
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Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
We are subject to financial market risks, including changes in interest rates. At December 31, 2019, 92.1% of debt investments in our portfolio boreinterest based on floating rates, such as LIBOR, EURIBOR, the Federal Funds Rate or the Prime Rate. The interest rates on such investments generally reset byreference to the current market index after one to six months. At December 31, 2019, the percentage of floating rate debt investments in our portfolio that weresubject to an interest rate floor was 63.5%. Floating rate investments subject to a floor generally reset by reference to the current market index after one to sixmonths only if the index exceeds the floor.
Interest rate sensitivity refers to the change in earnings that may result from changes in the level of interest rates. Because we fund a portion of ourinvestments with borrowings, our net investment income is affected by the difference between the rate at which we invest and the rate at which we borrow. As aresult, there can be no assurance that a significant change in market interest rates will not have a material adverse effect on our net investment income. We assessour portfolio companies periodically to determine whether such companies will be able to continue making interest payments in the event that interest ratesincrease. There can be no assurances that the portfolio companies will be able to meet their contractual obligations at any or all levels of increases in interest rates.
Based on our December 31, 2019 balance sheet, the following table shows the annual impact on net investment income (excluding the related incentivecompensation impact) of base rate changes in interest rates (considering interest rate floors for variable rate instruments and the fact that our assets and liabilitiesmay not have the same base rate period as assumed in this table) assuming no changes in our investment and borrowing structure:
Basis Point Change Interest income Interest Expense Net Investment IncomeUp 300 basis points $ 45,316,285 $ (7,992,609) $ 37,323,676Up 200 basis points 30,210,857 (5,328,406) 24,882,451Up 100 basis points 15,105,428 (2,664,203) 12,441,225Down 100 basis points (12,663,801) 2,664,203 (9,999,598)Down 200 basis points (18,047,994) 5,095,022 (12,952,972)Down 300 basis points (18,155,928) 5,095,022 (13,060,906)
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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Page
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 76Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 79Consolidated Schedule of Investments as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 80Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 99Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 100Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 101Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 102Consolidated Schedules of Changes in Investments in Affiliates as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 127Consolidated Schedules of Restricted Securities of Unaffiliated Issuers as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 131
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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the shareholders and the Board of Directors of BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of assets and liabilities of BlackRock TCP Capital Corp. and subsidiaries (the "Company"), includingthe consolidated schedules of investments, as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in net assets, and cashflows for each of the three years in the period then ended, financial highlights (in Note 10) for each of the five years in the period then ended, and the related notesand consolidating schedules and statements listed in Index at Item 15(a) (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financialstatements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations,changes in net assets, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period then ended, and financial highlights for each of the five years in the period thenended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internalcontrol over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committeeof Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 26, 2020, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internalcontrol over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statementsbased on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordancewith the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonableassurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures toassess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Suchprocedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating theaccounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Ourprocedures included confirmation of investments owned as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, by correspondence with the custodian, loan agents, and borrowers;when replies were not received, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to becommunicated to the audit committee and that (1) relates to an account or disclosure that is material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especiallychallenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of the critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements,taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts ordisclosures to which it relates.
75
Investment Valuation - Level 3 Investments - Refer to Note 2 to the financial statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
The Company held investments classified as Level 3 investments under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Theseinvestments included bank debt, other corporate debt, and equity, which are valued based on quotations or other affirmative pricing from independent third-party sources, or priced directly by Tennenbaum Capital Partners, LLC (the “Advisor”), each of which was determined using quotes and other observablemarket data to the extent such data are available, but which also required the use of one or more unobservable inputs significant to the valuation taken as awhole. Fair valuations of investments in each asset class are determined using one or more methodologies including market quotations, the market approach,income approach, or, in the case of recent investments, the cost approach, as appropriate. The fair value of the Company’s Level 3 investments was$1,512,767,659 as of December 31, 2019.
We identified the valuation of Level 3 investments as a critical audit matter because of the judgments necessary for management to select valuationmethodologies and to select significant unobservable inputs to estimate the fair value. This required a high degree of audit judgement and increased effort,including the need to involve our fair value specialists who possess significant quantitative and modeling expertise, to audit and evaluate the appropriateness ofthese models and unobservable inputs.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to the valuation methodologies and unobservable inputs used by management to estimate the fair value of Level 3 investmentsincluded the following, among others:
• We tested the effectiveness of controls over management’s valuation of Level 3 investments, including those related to selection of valuationmethodologies and significant unobservable inputs.
• We evaluated the appropriateness of the selected valuation methodologies used for Level 3 investments and tested the related significant unobservableinputs by comparing these inputs to external sources. We evaluated the reasonableness of any significant changes in valuation methodologies orsignificant unobservable inputs for those investments from the prior year-end. For selected investments, we used the assistance of our fair valuespecialists.
• For selected investments, with the assistance of our fair value specialists, we developed an independent estimate of the fair value and compared ourestimate to management’s estimate.
• We evaluated management’s ability to reasonably estimate fair value by comparing management’s historical estimates to subsequent transactions, takinginto account changes in market or investment specific conditions, where applicable.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLPLos Angeles, CaliforniaFebruary 26, 2020
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2015.
76
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the shareholders and the Board of Directors of BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of BlackRock TCP Capital Corp. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2019, basedon criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission(COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based oncriteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financialstatements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019, of the Company and our report dated February 26, 2020, expressed an unqualified opinion on thosefinancial statements.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internalcontrol over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to expressan opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and arerequired to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of theSecurities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assuranceabout whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internalcontrol over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal controlbased on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonablebasis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and thepreparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financialreporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect thetransactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation offinancial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only inaccordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection ofunauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation ofeffectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance withthe policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Los Angeles, CaliforniaFebruary 26, 2020
77
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities
December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
Assets Investments, at fair value: Companies less than 5% owned (cost of $1,483,508,500 and $1,460,936,257, respectively) $ 1,474,318,011 $ 1,463,800,744Companies 5% to 25% owned (cost of $70,112,667 and $78,353,253, respectively) 75,880,291 63,193,357Companies more than 25% owned (cost of $135,655,840 and $110,258,458, respectively) 99,308,593 70,291,689
Total investments (cost of $1,689,277,007 and $1,649,547,968, respectively) 1,649,506,895 1,597,285,790
Cash and cash equivalents 44,848,539 27,920,402Accrued interest income: Companies less than 5% owned 16,937,339 20,898,838Companies 5% to 25% owned 665,165 678,057Companies more than 25% owned 305,721 124,009
Deferred debt issuance costs 5,476,382 4,843,985
Receivable for investments sold 1,316,667 —Prepaid expenses and other assets 3,012,488 7,784,608Total assets 1,722,069,196 1,659,535,689
Liabilities Debt, net of unamortized issuance costs of $7,711,684 and $6,805,196, respectively 907,802,387 805,202,192
Payable for investments purchased 13,057,446 908,759
Interest payable 10,837,121 8,747,872
Management and advisory fees payable 5,429,075 5,247,344
Incentive compensation payable 4,753,671 5,840,346
Payable to the Advisor 1,591,651 1,226,372Accrued expenses and other liabilities 2,279,459 1,888,077Total liabilities 945,750,810 829,060,962
Commitments and contingencies (Note 5) Net assets $ 776,318,386 $ 830,474,727
Composition of net assets Common stock, $0.001 par value; 200,000,000 shares authorized, 58,766,426 and 58,774,607 shares issued andoutstanding as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively $ 58,766 $ 58,775
Paid-in capital in excess of par 997,379,362 1,000,073,183Distributable earnings (loss) (221,119,742) (169,657,231)
Net assets $ 776,318,386 $ 830,474,727
Net assets per share $ 13.21 $ 14.13
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
78
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments
December 31, 2019
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (A) Aerospace and Defense
Unanet, Inc. First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR(M) — 6.25% 8.06% 5/31/2024 $ 5,127,551 $ 5,059,515 $ 5,135,971 0.30% N
Unanet, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 6.25% 8.06% 5/31/2024 $ 19,897,959 19,710,909 19,919,847 1.18% NUnanet, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) — 6.25% 8.06% 5/31/2024 $ — (21,632) — — K/N
24,748,792 25,055,818 1.48% Airlines
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N902FJ) LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.41% 2/1/2022 $ 801,784 797,527 801,784 0.05% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N903FJ) LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.41% 2/1/2022 $ 942,947 937,941 942,947 0.06% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N904FJ) LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.41% 2/1/2022 $ 1,066,574 1,060,912 1,066,574 0.06% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N905FJ) LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.41% 2/1/2022 $ 768,185 764,107 768,185 0.05% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N906FJ) LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.41% 5/1/2022 $ 817,276 812,522 817,276 0.05% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N907FJ) LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.41% 5/1/2022 $ 853,632 848,667 853,632 0.05% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N908FJ) LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.41% 5/1/2022 $ 1,272,196 1,264,796 1,272,196 0.08% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N909FJ) LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.41% 8/1/2022 $ 581,841 578,354 581,841 0.03% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N910FJ) LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.41% 8/1/2022 $ 554,715 551,390 554,715 0.03% N
Mesa Airlines, Inc. Aircraft AcquisitionIncremental Loan LIBOR(M) — 5.25% 7.00% 9/27/2023 $ 2,655,121 2,623,792 2,620,870 0.15% N
Mesa Airlines, Inc. Aircraft AcquisitionLoan LIBOR(M) — 5.00% 6.75% 6/5/2023 $ 21,683,485 21,440,802 21,653,129 1.28% N
One Sky Flight, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.50% 9.30% 12/27/2024 $ 12,500,000 12,187,500 12,250,000 0.72% N
43,868,310 44,183,149 2.61% Automobiles
Autoalert, LLC
First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan
LIBOR(Q)
0.25%
5.75%
Cash+3.00%PIK
10.88%
1/1/2022
$ 38,966,342
38,845,649
39,356,005
2.32%
N
Autoalert, LLC
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR(Q)
0.25%
5.75%
Cash+3.00%PIK
10.88%
1/1/2022
$ 15,420,901
15,313,907
15,575,110
0.92%
N
DealerFX, Inc.
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR(Q)
—
6.25%
Cash+2.00%PIK
10.25%
2/1/2023
$ 16,183,673
15,965,712
16,345,510
0.96%
N
70,125,268 71,276,625 4.20% Building Products
Dodge Data & Analytics,LLC First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 7.00% 9.00% 5/1/2020 $ 875,631 875,023 875,106 0.05% N
Dodge Data & Analytics,LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 7.00% 9.00% 5/1/2020 $ 35,420,561 35,395,034 35,399,308 2.09% N
36,270,057 36,274,414 2.14% Capital Markets
HighTower Holding, LLC Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 8.75% 10.49% 1/31/2026 $ 15,080,645 14,733,952 15,082,153 0.89% NHighTower Holding, LLC Second Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 8.75% 10.49% 1/31/2026 $ 6,169,355 6,059,721 6,169,972 0.36% N
20,793,673 21,252,125 1.25% Chemicals
AGY Holding Corp. Second Lien Notes Fixed — 11.00% 11.00% 11/15/2020 $ 10,315,515 8,778,822 3,708,428 0.22% B/C/E/NAGY Holding Corp. Delayed Draw TermLoan Fixed — 12.00% 12.00% 9/15/2020 $ 1,114,120 1,114,120 1,114,120 0.07% B/N
AGY Holding Corp. Sr Secured Term Loan Fixed — 12.00% 12.00% 9/15/2020 $ 5,171,151 5,171,151 5,171,151 0.31% B/N
15,064,093 9,993,699 0.60%
79
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2019
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (continued) Commercial Services and Supplies
Kellermeyer BergensonsServices, LLC First Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan A LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.50% 8.39% 11/7/2026 $ — $ — $ (13,529) — K/N
Kellermeyer BergensonsServices, LLC First Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan B LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.50% 8.39% 11/7/2026 $ — — (17,647) — K/N
Kellermeyer BergensonsServices, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.50% 8.39% 11/7/2026 $ 6,535,948 6,472,583 6,477,124 0.38% N
Team Software, Inc. First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR(Q) — 5.50% 7.50% 9/17/2023 $ 7,220,080 7,114,156 7,172,428 0.42% N
Team Software, Inc. First Lien Revolver LIBOR(Q) — 5.50% 7.50% 9/17/2023 $ 1,228,924 1,189,152 1,205,750 0.07% NTeam Software, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) — 5.50% 7.50% 9/17/2023 $ 13,167,038 13,012,854 13,080,136 0.77% N
27,788,745 27,904,262 1.64% Communications Equipment
Avanti CommunicationsJersey Limited
1.5 Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan (2.5% ExitFee)
Fixed
—
12.50%
12.50%
5/24/2021
$ 1,214,371
1,214,371
1,214,371
0.07%
L/N
Avanti CommunicationsJersey Limited 1.5 Lien Term Loan(2.5% Exit Fee) Fixed — 12.50% 12.50% 5/24/2021 $ 282,820 238,768 282,820 0.02% L/N
Avanti CommunicationsGroup, PLC (UnitedKingdom)
Sr New Money InitialNote
Fixed
—
9.00%PIK
9.00%
10/1/2022
$ 1,592,934
1,591,586
1,074,115
0.06%
C/E/G/H/N
Avanti CommunicationsGroup, PLC (UnitedKingdom)
Sr Second-Priority PIKToggle Note
Fixed
—
9.00%PIK
9.00%
10/1/2022
$ 4,064,721
4,064,219
2,740,841
0.16%
C/E/G/H/N
7,108,944 5,312,147 0.31% Construction and Engineering
Hylan Datacom &Electrical, LLC First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 9.50% 11.41% 7/25/2021 $ 2,536,311 2,502,108 2,090,739 0.12% N
Hylan Datacom &Electrical, LLC First Lien Term Loan(5.4% Exit Fee) LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 9.50% 11.41% 7/25/2021 $ 14,031,084 13,959,042 11,566,142 0.67% L/N
16,461,150 13,656,881 0.79% Construction Materials
Brannan Sand and GravelCompany, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) — 5.25% 7.25% 7/3/2023 $ 6,682,556 6,612,301 6,652,484 0.39% N
Consumer Finance
Auto Trakk SPV, LLC First Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan LIBOR(M) 0.50% 6.50% 8.24% 12/21/2021 $ 23,971,792 23,800,742 23,749,039 1.40% N
Barri Financial Group, LL First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.75% 9.54% 10/23/2024 $ 19,346,662 18,873,298 19,031,311 1.12% N
42,674,040 42,780,350 2.52% Diversified Consumer Services
Edmentum, Inc. Jr Revolving Facility Fixed — 5.00% 5.00% 6/9/2020 $ 5,235,973 5,235,973 5,235,978 0.31% B/NEdmentum, Inc. First Lien Term Loan B LIBOR(Q) — 8.50% 10.43% 6/9/2021 $ 10,740,023 9,566,580 10,740,023 0.63% B/NEdmentum, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan Fixed — 7.00%
PIK 7.00% 12/8/2021 $ 8,281,653 8,281,653 8,281,661 0.49% B/N
Edmentum UltimateHoldings, LLC Jr PIK Notes Fixed — 10.00%
PIK 10.00% 6/9/2020 $ 17,609,276 17,536,516 17,609,276 1.04% B/N
Edmentum UltimateHoldings, LLC Sr PIK Notes Fixed — 8.50%
PIK 8.50% 6/9/2020 $ 3,675,888 3,675,888 3,675,888 0.22% B/N
Spark Networks, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(Q) 1.50% 8.00% 9.95% 7/1/2023 $ — (30,874) (38,827) — K/NSpark Networks, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.50% 8.00% 9.95% 7/1/2023 $ 22,934,229 22,203,944 22,062,728 1.30% N
66,469,680 67,566,727 3.99% Diversified Financial Services
36th Street CapitalPartners Holdings, LLC Senior Note Fixed — 12.00% 12.00% 11/1/2020 $ 40,834,419 40,834,418 40,834,419 2.41% E/F/N/O
Aretec Group, Inc.(Cetera) Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 8.25% 10.05% 10/1/2026 $ 27,105,263 26,845,399 26,788,945 1.58% G
Credit Suisse AG(Cayman Islands) Asset-Backed CreditLinked Notes LIBOR(Q) — 9.50% 11.45% 4/12/2025 $ 38,000,000 38,000,000 37,604,800 2.22% H/I/N
GC Agile HoldingsLimited (Apex) (England) First Lien DelayedTerm Loan B LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 7.00% 9.11% 6/15/2025 $ 18,979,469 18,625,118 18,629,867 1.10% H/N
GC Agile HoldingsLimited (Apex) (England) First Lien Term Loan A LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 7.00% 9.11% 6/15/2025 $ 824,958 810,028 809,366 0.05% H/N
RSB-160, LLC (Lat20) First Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.00% 7.90% 7/20/2022 $ 2,333,333 2,299,659 2,335,900 0.14% N
127,414,622 127,003,297 7.50%
80
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2019
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (continued) Diversified Telecommunication Services
American BroadbandHolding Company First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.25% 7.25% 9.05% 10/25/2022 $ 15,395,873 $ 15,151,000 $ 15,796,166 0.93% N
ECI Macola/MaxHolding, LLC Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 8.00% 9.94% 9/29/2025 $ 24,840,563 24,660,905 24,571,540 1.45% Securus Technologies,Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 8.25% 10.05% 11/1/2025 $ 25,846,154 25,648,456 12,509,538 0.74% TPC IntermediateHoldings, LLC First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 6.00% 7.94% 5/15/2023 $ 799,588 787,670 796,310 0.05% N
TPC IntermediateHoldings, LLC First Lien IncrementalDelayed Draw Term Loan
LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 6.00% 7.94% 5/15/2020 $ 525,686 519,722 522,453 0.03% N
TPC IntermediateHoldings, LLC
First Lien IncrementalDelayed Draw Term LoanA
LIBOR(Q)
1.00%
6.00%
7.94%
10/31/2020
$ —
—
(16,811)
—
K/N
Telarix, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.00% 7.80% 11/19/2023 $ 7,443,750 7,348,457 7,349,959 0.43% NTelarix, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.00% 7.80% 11/19/2023 $ 178,571 174,365 174,071 0.01% N
74,290,575 61,703,226 3.64% Electric Utilities
Conergy Asia & ME Pte.Ltd (Singapore) First Lien Term Loan Fixed — 10.00% 10.00% 5/26/2020 $ 1,773,807 1,773,807 1,207,785 0.07% F/H/N
Kawa Solar HoldingsLimited (Conergy)(Cayman Islands)
Bank Guarantee CreditFacility
Fixed
—
—
0.00%
5/26/2020
$ 6,578,877
6,578,877
3,289,438
0.19%
C/F/H/N
Kawa Solar HoldingsLimited (Conergy)(Cayman Islands)
Revolving Credit Facility
Fixed
—
—
0.00%
5/26/2020
$ 8,668,850
8,668,850
2,208,823
0.13%
C/F/H/N
Utilidata, Inc.
First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan (4.0% ExitFee)
LIBOR(Q)
—
9.88%
11.81%
7/1/2020
$ 1,033,398
1,024,722
942,562
0.06%
L/N
18,046,256 7,648,608 0.45% Electrical Equipment
TCFI Amteck Holdings,LLC First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR(M) — 8.25% 9.75% 5/22/2023 $ 497,143 490,068 497,143 0.03% N
TCFI Amteck Holdings,LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 8.25% 9.75% 5/22/2023 $ 16,237,115 16,003,295 16,237,115 0.96% N
16,493,363 16,734,258 0.99% Energy Equipment and Services
GlassPoint Solar, Inc. First Lien Term Loan(4.0% Exit Fee) LIBOR(Q) — 8.50% 10.44% 12/31/2020 $ 4,167,831 4,147,728 3,999,033 0.24% L/N
GlassPoint Solar, Inc. First Lien Term Loan(5.0% Exit Fee) LIBOR(Q) — 11.44% 13.38% 12/31/2020 $ 2,276,123 2,204,998 2,226,731 0.13% L/N
Sphera Solutions, Inc.(Diamondback) First Lien FILO TermLoan B LIBOR(Q) 2.00% 8.81% 10.81% 6/14/2022 $ 23,614,465 23,255,646 23,371,236 1.38% N
29,608,372 29,597,000 1.75% Health Care Technology
CAREATC, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 7.25% 9.14% 3/14/2024 $ 8,502,033 8,351,441 8,483,328 0.50% NCAREATC, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) — 7.25% 9.14% 3/14/2024 $ — (10,223) (1,336) — K/NPatient Point NetworkSolutions, LLC Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 7.50% 9.44% 6/26/2022 $ 264,285 261,418 262,347 0.02% N
Patient Point NetworkSolutions, LLC First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 7.50% 9.44% 6/26/2022 $ 1,239,799 1,229,504 1,234,344 0.07% N
Patient Point NetworkSolutions, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 7.50% 9.44% 6/26/2022 $ 6,432,648 6,389,679 6,404,344 0.38% N
Sandata Technologies,LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) — 6.00% 8.00% 7/23/2024 $ 20,250,000 19,961,722 19,942,200 1.18% N
Sandata Technologies,LLC Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(Q) — 6.00% 8.00% 7/23/2024 $ — (30,795) (34,200) — K/N
36,152,746 36,291,027 2.15%
81
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2019
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (continued) Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure
Fishbowl, Inc.
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR(Q)
—
2.80%
Cash+8.45%PIK
13.25%
1/26/2022
$ 24,564,304
$ 24,250,372
$ 22,591,790
1.33%
N
Pegasus BusinessIntelligence, LP (OnyxCentersource)
First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan
LIBOR(Q)
1.00%
6.25%
8.20%
12/20/2021
$ 5,678,264
5,678,264
5,735,615
0.34%
N
Pegasus BusinessIntelligence, LP (OnyxCentersource)
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR(Q)
1.00%
6.25%
8.20%
12/20/2021
$ 13,583,579
13,524,243
13,720,773
0.81%
N
Pegasus BusinessIntelligence, LP (OnyxCentersource)
Revolver
LIBOR(Q)
1.00%
6.25%
8.20%
12/20/2021
$ —
(2,686)
—
—
K/N
VSS-Southern Holdings,LLC (Southern Theatres)
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR(Q)
1.00%
6.50%
Cash+2.00%PIK
10.44%
3/31/2022
$ 2,395,992
2,373,398
2,443,913
0.14%
N
VSS-Southern Holdings,LLC (Southern Theatres)
First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan
LIBOR(Q)
1.00%
6.50%
Cash+2.00%PIK
10.44%
3/31/2022
$ 142,889
141,895
145,747
0.01%
N
VSS-Southern Holdings,LLC (Southern Theatres)
First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 6.50% 8.44% 3/31/2022 $ 550,909 550,909 561,927 0.03% N
VSS-Southern Holdings,LLC (Southern Theatres)
Sr Secured Revolver
LIBOR(Q)
1.00%
6.50%
Cash+2.00%PIK
10.44%
3/31/2022
$ —
(6,733)
—
—
K/N
46,509,662 45,199,765 2.66% Insurance
2-10 Holdco, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 6.25% 8.05% 10/31/2024 $ 4,537,500 4,461,178 4,479,420 0.26% N2-10 Holdco, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) — 6.25% 8.05% 10/31/2024 $ — (6,724) (5,333) — K/NHigginbotham InsuranceAgency, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.50% 9.30% 12/19/2025 $ 28,000,000 27,801,191 27,860,000 1.64% N
IAS Investco, Inc. First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan A LIBOR(M) 1.00% 5.50% 7.30% 1/24/2021 $ 5,318,571 5,296,361 5,295,702 0.31% N
IAS Investco, Inc. First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan B LIBOR(M) 1.00% 5.50% 7.30% 1/24/2021 $ 1,714,286 1,708,138 1,706,914 0.10% N
IAS Investco, Inc. First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 5.50% 7.30% 1/24/2021 $ 6,020,424 6,002,687 5,994,536 0.35% N
IAS Investco, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 5.50% 7.30% 1/24/2021 $ 3,934,469 3,918,004 3,917,550 0.23% N
49,180,835 49,248,789 2.89% Internet and Catalog Retail
Live Auctioneers LLC First Lien Last Out B-2Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 6.76% 8.56% 5/20/2025 $ 13,960,362 13,698,968 13,635,085 0.79% N
Internet Software and Services
Acquia Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) — 7.00% 8.91% 11/1/2025 $ 16,648,997 16,321,473 16,345,985 0.96% NAcquia Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(Q) — 7.00% 8.91% 11/1/2025 $ — (35,084) (32,829) — K/NDomo, Inc.
First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan (7.0% ExitFee)
LIBOR(M)
—
5.63%
Cash+2.50%PIK
9.94%
10/1/2022
$ 52,127,502
51,828,896
51,270,531
3.03%
L/N
FinancialForce.com, Inc.
First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan (3.0% ExitFee)
LIBOR(Q)
2.75%
6.75%
9.50%
2/1/2024
$ 28,000,000
27,522,676
28,464,800
1.68%
L/N
Foursquare Labs, Inc. First Lien Term Loan(5.0% Exit Fee) LIBOR(Q) — 7.25% 9.19% 10/1/2022 $ 33,750,000 33,445,277 33,237,000 1.96% L/N
InMobi, Inc. (Singapore) First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.37% 8.13% 10.06% 9/30/2021 $ 30,906,865 30,717,380 30,545,254 1.80% H/NQuartz Holding Company(Quick Base) Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 8.00% 9.71% 4/2/2027 $ 9,903,019 9,708,757 9,878,261 0.58% N
ResearchGate GmBH(Germany) First Lien Term Loan(4.0% Exit Fee) EURIBOR(M) — 8.55% 8.55% 10/1/2022 € 7,500,000 7,856,974 7,952,439 0.47% D/H/L/N
177,366,349 177,661,441 10.48% IT Services
Apptio, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.25% 8.96% 1/10/2025 $ 11,812,993 11,598,319 11,567,282 0.68% NApptio, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.25% 8.96% 1/10/2025 $ — (12,904) (16,000) — K/NDonuts Inc. First Lien Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.25% 8.15% 9/17/2023 $ 373,849 350,320 364,746 0.02% NDonuts Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 6.25% 8.19% 9/17/2023 $ 10,910,690 10,653,623 10,814,676 0.64% NWeb.com Group Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 7.75% 9.49% 10/11/2026 $ 16,280,678 16,166,395 15,715,983 0.93% G/J
Xactly Corporation First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan B LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.25% 9.05% 7/31/2022 $ 4,996,644 4,913,115 4,990,148 0.29% N
Xactly Corporation First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.25% 9.05% 7/31/2022 $ 2,726,918 2,692,315 2,723,373 0.16% N
Xactly Corporation First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.25% 9.05% 7/31/2022 $ 16,397,517 16,210,453 16,376,200 0.97% NXactly Corporation Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.25% 9.05% 7/31/2022 $ — (14,579) (1,827) — K/N
62,557,057 62,534,581 3.69%
82
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2019
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (continued) Leisure Products
Blue Star SportsHoldings, Inc. First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 5.75% 7.76% 6/15/2024 $ 55,556 $ 54,693 $ 53,556 — N
Blue Star SportsHoldings, Inc. First Lien Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 5.75% 7.55% 6/15/2024 $ 111,111 108,557 105,111 0.01% N
Blue Star SportsHoldings, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 5.75% 7.55% 6/15/2024 $ 1,504,611 1,480,597 1,450,445 0.09% N
Machine Zone, Inc. First Lien Term Loan(10.0% Exit Fee) LIBOR(M) — 13.50% 15.20% 2/1/2021 $ 5,672,712 5,637,816 5,588,188 0.33% L/N
7,281,663 7,197,300 0.43% Media
Bisnow, LLC First Lien Revolver LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.63% 9/21/2022 $ — (10,270) — — K/NBisnow, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) — 7.50% 9.63% 9/21/2022 $ 10,557,386 10,446,491 10,628,121 0.63% NKhoros, LLC (Lithium) Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 8.00% 10.04% 10/3/2022 $ — (7,100) (5,736) — K/NKhoros, LLC (Lithium) Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 8.00% 10.04% 10/3/2022 $ — (19,127) (19,255) — K/NKhoros, LLC (Lithium) First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 8.00% 10.04% 10/3/2022 $ 7,131,905 7,016,707 7,042,043 0.42% N
Khoros, LLC (Lithium) First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 8.00% 10.04% 10/3/2022 $ 20,884,731 20,616,273 20,621,583 1.22% NNEP II, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 7.00% 8.80% 10/19/2026 $ 25,000,000 24,753,355 22,687,500 1.34% GQuora, Inc. First Lien Term Loan(4.0% Exit Fee) Fixed — 10.10% 10.10% 5/1/2022 $ 12,692,602 12,528,197 12,709,103 0.75% L/N
75,324,526 73,663,359 4.36% Metal and Mining
Neenah FoundryCompany First Lien Term Loan B LIBOR(M) — 6.50% 8.35% 12/13/2022 $ 4,943,976 4,909,287 4,845,097 0.29%
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels
Iracore International, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 9.00% 10.88% 4/13/2021 $ 1,635,903 1,635,902 1,635,903 0.10% B/N
Pharmaceuticals
Cambrex Corporation Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 9.00% 10.70% 12/6/2027 $ 15,441,176 15,133,798 15,363,971 0.91% NP&L Development, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 2.00% 7.50% 9.50% 6/28/2024 $ 8,645,000 8,447,637 8,601,775 0.51% G/N
23,581,435 23,965,746 1.42% Professional Services
Applause App Quality,Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 5.00% 6.93% 9/20/2022 $ 20,772,306 20,522,294 20,851,241 1.23% N
Applause App Quality,Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 5.00% 6.93% 9/20/2022 $ — (16,489) — — K/N
CIBT Solutions, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 7.75% 9.69% 6/1/2025 $ 7,611,914 7,551,528 7,155,199 0.42% G/NDiscoverorg, LLC Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 8.50% 10.19% 2/1/2027 $ 15,000,000 14,795,054 15,075,000 0.89% GDude Solutions Holdings,Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.00% 8.80% 6/13/2025 $ — (45,365) (40,404) — K/N
Dude Solutions Holdings,Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.00% 8.80% 6/13/2025 $ 16,927,201 16,566,086 16,617,434 0.98% N
iCIMS, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.50% 8.29% 9/12/2024 $ — (7,699) (11,385) — K/NiCIMS, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.50% 8.29% 9/12/2024 $ 9,482,016 9,315,912 9,262,034 0.55% NInstitutional ShareholderServices, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) — 8.50% 10.44% 3/5/2026 $ 5,820,856 5,658,368 5,588,022 0.33% N
STG-FairwayAcquisitions, Inc.(FirstAdvantage)
Second Lien Term Loan
LIBOR(M)
1.00%
9.25%
11.05%
6/30/2023
$ 31,000,000
30,701,658
31,000,000
1.83%
N
105,041,347 105,497,141 6.23% Real Estate Management and Development
Florida East CoastIndustries, LLC First Lien Term Loan B LIBOR(M) — 6.75% 8.51% 12/13/2021 $ 2,321,694 2,289,777 2,310,086 0.14% N
Florida East CoastIndustries, LLC First Lien IncrementalLien Term Loan B LIBOR(M) — 6.75% 8.51% 12/13/2021 $ 876,520 869,946 872,138 0.05% N
Space Midco, Inc.(Archibus) First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) — 6.25% 8.00% 12/5/2023 $ 4,444,444 4,371,064 4,371,111 0.26% N
Space Midco, Inc.(Archibus) Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) — 6.25% 8.00% 12/5/2023 $ — (4,371) (4,583) — K/N
7,526,416 7,548,752 0.45% Road and Rail
GlobalTranz EnterprisesLLC Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 8.25% 10.04% 5/15/2027 $ 19,382,324 19,008,604 18,796,978 1.11% N
83
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2019
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity/Expiration Principal/Shares Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (continued) Software
Certify, Inc. First Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 5.75% 7.55% 2/28/2024 $ 1,594,315 $ 1,547,623 $ 1,537,877 0.09% N
Certify, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 5.75% 7.55% 2/28/2024 $ 23,383,293 23,292,776 22,969,408 1.36% NCertify, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 5.75% 7.55% 2/28/2024 $ 159,432 143,495 140,619 0.01% NJAMF Holdings, Inc.
First LienIncremental TermLoan
LIBOR(Q)
1.00%
7.00%
8.91%
11/13/2022
$ 3,606,829
3,563,940
3,606,829
0.21%
N
JAMF Holdings, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 7.00% 8.91% 11/13/2022 $ 14,160,797 13,978,598 14,160,797 0.84% NJAMF Holdings, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.00% 8.80% 11/13/2022 $ — (14,355) — — K/NMarketlive, LLC(Kibo) First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) — 8.00% 9.91% 12/18/2020 $ 5,076,516 4,988,719 4,989,707 0.29% N
Rhode Holdings, Inc.(Kaseya) First Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 6.50% 8.60% 5/3/2025 $ 224,401 193,557 190,964 0.01% N
Rhode Holdings, Inc.(Kaseya)
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR(Q)
1.00%
5.50%
Cash+1.00%PIK
8.72%
5/3/2025
$ 14,362,948
14,098,242
14,084,307
0.82%
N
Rhode Holdings, Inc.(Kaseya) Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.50% 8.30% 5/3/2025 $ 689,257 667,641 665,857 0.04% N
Snow Software AB First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 2.00% 6.50% 8.50% 4/17/2024 $ 13,081,645 12,846,264 12,860,565 0.76% NSnow Software AB
First LienIncremental TermLoan
LIBOR(Q)
2.00%
6.50%
8.50%
4/17/2024
$ 14,557,807
14,269,367
14,311,780
0.84%
N
Snow Software AB Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(Q) 2.00% 6.50% 8.50% 4/17/2024 $ 1,744,219 1,668,977 1,670,526 0.10% NWinshuttle, LLC First Lien FILO TermLoan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 8.42% 10.22% 8/9/2024 $ 14,007,952 13,649,539 13,665,177 0.81% N
104,894,383 104,854,413 6.18% Specialty Retail
USR Parent, Inc.(Staples) First Lien FILO TermLoan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 8.84% 10.54% 9/12/2022 $ 6,410,930 6,314,032 6,404,519 0.38% N
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals
Pulse Secure, LLC Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.00% 8.71% 5/1/2022 $ — (9,446) (3,893) — K/NPulse Secure, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.00% 8.71% 5/1/2022 $ 11,142,879 11,057,992 11,110,565 0.66% NTierPoint, LLC Second Lien TermLoan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.25% 9.05% 5/5/2025 $ 2,880,000 2,854,404 2,558,405 0.15%
13,902,950 13,665,077 0.81% Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods
ABG IntermediateHoldings 2, LLC(Authentic Brands)
Second Lien TermLoan
LIBOR(M)
1.00%
7.75%
9.55%
9/29/2025
$ 11,967,243
11,888,882
11,987,228
0.71%
Kenneth ColeProductions, Inc. First Lien FILO TermLoan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 7.75% 9.50% 12/28/2023 $ 23,528,829 23,383,523 23,507,653 1.39% N
PSEB, LLC (EddieBauer) First Lien FILO IITerm Loan PRIME — 7.25% 12.00% 10/12/2023 $ 10,793,402 10,549,564 10,793,402 0.64% N
PSEB, LLC (EddieBauer) First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.50% 8.00% 9.91% 10/12/2023 $ 39,823,155 38,936,624 39,624,039 2.34% N
WH Buyer, LLC(Anne Klein) First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.50% 6.75% 8.75% 7/16/2025 $ 27,664,640 27,395,096 27,410,125 1.62% N
112,153,689 113,322,447 6.70% Thrifts and Mortgage Finance
Greystone SelectHoldings, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(Q) 1.00% 8.00% 9.93% 4/17/2024 $ 24,826,865 24,672,974 25,571,671 1.51% N
Home Partners ofAmerica, Inc. First Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.25% 8.05% 10/13/2022 $ — — — — N
Home Partners ofAmerica, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.00% 6.25% 8.05% 10/13/2022 $ 2,857,143 2,826,874 2,857,145 0.17% N
27,499,848 28,428,816 1.68% Tobacco Related
Juul Labs, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR(M) 1.50% 7.00% 8.90% 8/2/2023 $ 26,315,789 26,067,931 26,202,632 1.55% N
Total Debt Investments 1,564,445,871 1,535,193,938 90.60%
Equity Securities Airlines
Epic Aero, Inc (OneSky) Common Stock 1,842 855,313 6,333,559 0.38% C/N
United N659UA-767,LLC (N659UA) Trust BeneficialInterests 683 2,165,433 2,300,366 0.14% E/F/N
United N661UA-767,LLC (N661UA) Trust BeneficialInterests 688 2,225,361 2,347,314 0.14% E/F/N
5,246,107 10,981,239 0.66%
84
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2019
Issuer Instrument Expiration Shares Cost FairValue
% of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Equity Securities (continued) Chemicals
AGY Holding Corp. Common Stock 1,333,527 $ — $ — — B/C/E/NKAGY HoldingCompany, Inc. Series A Preferred Stock 9,778 1,091,200 — — B/C/E/N
1,091,200 — — Communications Equipment
Avanti CommunicationsGroup, PLC (UnitedKingdom)
Common Stock
26,576,710
4,902,674
3,523
—
C/D/H/N
Diversified Consumer Services
Edmentum UltimateHoldings, LLC Class A Common Units 159,515 680,226 1,433,968 0.08% B/C/E/N
Edmentum UltimateHoldings, LLC Warrants to Purchase
Class A Units 2/23/2028 788,112 1 7,084,470 0.42% B/C/E/N
680,227 8,518,438 0.50% Diversified Financial Services
36th Street CapitalPartners Holdings, LLC Membership Units 22,199,416 22,199,416 31,682,859 1.87% E/F/N/O
Conventional LendingTCP Holdings, LLC Membership Units 14,269,948 14,269,948 14,269,948 0.84% E/F/I/N
GACP I, LP (GreatAmerican Capital) Membership Units 1,772,812 1,772,812 2,384,330 0.14% E/I/N
GACP II, LP (GreatAmerican Capital) Membership Units 18,039,482 18,039,482 18,764,975 1.11% E/I/N
56,281,658 67,102,112 3.96% Diversified Telecommunication Services
V Telecom InvestmentS.C.A. (Vivacom)(Luxembourg)
Common Shares
1,393
3,236,256
95,280
0.01%
C/D/E/H/N
Electric Utilities
Conergy Asia HoldingsLimited (UnitedKingdom)
Class B Shares
1,000,000
1,000,000
—
—
C/E/F/H/N
Conergy Asia HoldingsLimited (UnitedKingdom)
Ordinary Shares
3,333
7,833,333
—
—
C/E/F/H/N
Kawa Solar HoldingsLimited (Conergy)(Cayman Islands)
Ordinary Shares
2,332,594
—
—
—
C/E/F/H/N
Kawa Solar HoldingsLimited (Conergy)(Cayman Islands)
Series B PreferredShares
93,023
1,395,349
—
—
C/E/F/H/N
Utilidata, Inc. Warrants to PurchasePreferred Stock 12/22/2022 719,998 216,336 29,070 — C/E/N
10,445,018 29,070 — Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components
Soraa, Inc. Warrants to PurchasePreferred Stock 8/29/2024 3,071,860 478,899 — — C/E/N
Energy Equipment and Services
GlassPoint Solar, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries E Preferred Stock 2/7/2027 400,000 248,555 113,280 0.01% C/E/N
GlassPoint Solar, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries E Preferred Stock 2/7/2027 2,048,000 505,450 579,992 0.03% C/E/N
754,005 693,272 0.04%
85
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2019
Issuer Instrument Expiration Shares Cost Fair Value
% of Total Cash and
Investments Notes
Equity Securities (continued) Internet Software and Services
Domo, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseClass B Common Stock 6/28/2021 62,247 $ 511,349 $ 509,086 0.03% C/E/N
FinancialForce.com, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries C Preferred Stock 1/30/2029 840,000 287,985 271,044 0.02% C/E/N
Foursquare Labs, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries E Preferred Stock 5/4/2027 1,687,500 297,361 347,063 0.02% C/E/N
InMobi, Inc. (Singapore) Warrants to PurchaseCommon Stock 8/15/2027 1,327,869 212,360 180,797 0.01% C/E/H/N
InMobi, Inc. (Singapore)
Warrants to PurchaseSeries E Preferred Stock(Strike Price $20.01)
9/18/2025
1,049,996
276,492
396,397
0.02%
C/E/H/N
InMobi, Inc. (Singapore)
Warrants to PurchaseSeries E Preferred Stock(Strike Price $28.58)
10/3/2028
1,511,002
93,407
335,614
0.02%
C/E/H/N
ResearchGateCorporation (Germany) Warrants to Purchase
Series D Preferred Stock 10/30/2029 333,370 202,001 205,018 0.01% C/D/E/H/N
Snaplogic, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries Preferred Stock 3/19/2028 1,860,000 377,722 4,600,000 0.27% C/E/N
2,258,677 6,845,019 0.40% IT Services
Fidelis (SVC), LLC Preferred Units 657,932 2,001,384 47,518 — C/E/N
Life Sciences Tools and Services
Envigo RMS HoldingsCorp. Common Stock 36,413 — 526,350 0.03% C/E/N
Media
NEG Parent, LLC (CoreEntertainment, Inc.) Class A Units 2,720,392 2,772,807 6,925,847 0.41% B/C/E/N
NEG Parent, LLC (CoreEntertainment, Inc.) Class A Warrants to
Purchase Class A Units 10/17/2026 343,387 196,086 391,407 0.02% B/C/E/N
NEG Parent, LLC (CoreEntertainment, Inc.) Class B Warrants to
Purchase Class A Units 10/17/2026 346,794 198,032 395,290 0.02% B/C/E/N
Quora, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries D Preferred Stock 4/11/2029 507,704 65,245 64,803 — C/E/N
Shop Holding, LLC(Connexity) Class A Units 507,167 480,049 — — C/E/N
SoundCloud, Ltd. (UnitedKingdom) Warrants to Purchase
Preferred Stock 4/29/2025 946,498 79,082 45,143 — C/E/H/N
3,791,301 7,822,490 0.45% Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels
Iracore InvestmentsHoldings, Inc. Class A Common Stock 16,207 4,177,710 2,476,881 0.15% B/C/E/N
Professional Services
Anacomp, Inc. Class A Common Stock 1,255,527 26,711,048 1,167,641 0.07% C/E/F/NFindly Talent, LLC Membership Units 708,229 230,938 123,939 0.01% C/E/NSTG-Fairway Holdings,LLC (First Advantage) Class A Units 803,961 325,432 5,380,520 0.32% C/E/N
27,267,418 6,672,100 0.40% Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment
Adesto TechnologiesCorporation Warrants to Purchase
Common Stock 5/8/2024 436,320 846,724 667,570 0.04% C/E/N
Nanosys, Inc. Warrants to PurchasePreferred Stock 3/29/2023 800,000 605,266 838,607 0.05% C/E/N
1,451,990 1,506,177 0.09%
86
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2019
Issuer Instrument Expiration Shares Cost FairValue
% of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Equity Securities (continued) Software
Actifio, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries G Preferred Stock 5/5/2027 1,052,651 $ 188,770 $ 469,687 0.03% C/E/N
Tradeshift, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries D Preferred Stock 3/26/2027 1,712,930 577,842 523,801 0.03% C/E/N
766,612 993,488 0.06% Total Equity Securities 124,831,136 114,312,957 6.75%
Total Investments $ 1,689,277,077 $ 1,649,506,895
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash Held on Account at Various Institutions 44,848,539 2.65% Cash and Cash Equivalents 44,848,539 2.65%
Total Cash and Investments $ 1,694,355,434 100.00% M
Notes to Consolidated Schedule of Investments:
(A) Debt investments include investments in bank debt that generally are bought and sold among institutional investors in transactions not subject to registration under the Securities Act of1933. Such transactions are generally subject to contractual restrictions, such as approval of the agent or borrower.
(B) Non-controlled affiliate – as defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (ownership of between 5% and 25% of the outstanding voting securities of this issuer). See ConsolidatedSchedule of Changes in Investments in Affiliates.
(C) Non-income producing.(D) Investment denominated in foreign currency. Cost and fair value converted from foreign currency to US dollars. Foreign currency denominated investments are generally hedged for
currency exposure.(E) Restricted security. (See Note 2)(F) Controlled issuer – as defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (ownership of 25% or more of the outstanding voting securities of this issuer). Investment is not more than 50%
of the outstanding voting securities of the issuer nor deemed to be a significant subsidiary. See Consolidated Schedule of Changes in Investments in Affiliates.(G) Investment has been segregated to collateralize certain unfunded commitments.(H) Non-U.S. company or principal place of business outside the U.S. and as a result the investment is not a qualifying asset under Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act. Under the
Investment Company Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying asset unless, at the time such acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% of the Company'stotal assets.
(I) Deemed an investment company under Section 3(c) of the Investment Company Act and as a result the investment is not a qualifying asset under Section 55(a) of the Investment CompanyAct. Under the Investment Company Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying asset unless, at the time such acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% ofthe Company's total assets.
(J) Publicly traded company with a market capitalization greater than $250 million and as a result the investment is not a qualifying asset under Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act.Under the Investment Company Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying asset unless, at the time such acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% of theCompany's total assets.
(K) Negative balances relate to an unfunded commitment that was acquired and/or valued at a discount.(L) In addition to the stated coupon, investment has an exit fee payable upon repayment of the loan in an amount equal to the percentage of the original principal amount shown.(M) All cash and investments, except those referenced in Notes G above, are pledged as collateral under certain debt as described in Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.(N) Inputs in the valuation of this investment included certain unobservable inputs that were significant to the valuation as a whole.(O) 36th Street Capital Partners Holdings, LLC holds common and preferred interests in a pool of equipment loans and leases made by 36th Street Capital Partners, LLC.
LIBOR or EURIBOR resets monthly (M), quarterly (Q), semiannually (S), or annually (A). During 2019, we transitioned our industry classification system for financial reporting purposes to more closely align with the system generally used by the Advisor for portfolio managementpurposes. As part of this transition, we are generally classifying the industries of our portfolio companies based on the primary end market served rather than the product or service directed tothose end markets. The Consolidated Schedule of Investments as of December 31, 2018 reflects the industry classification system prior to this transition.
Aggregate acquisitions and aggregate dispositions of investments, other than government securities, totaled $700,024,114 and $596,374,086, respectively, for the twelve months endedDecember 31, 2019. Aggregate acquisitions includes investment assets received as payment in kind. Aggregate dispositions includes principal paydowns on and maturities of debt investments.The total value of restricted securities and bank debt as of December 31, 2019 was $1,605,565,013 or 94.8% of total cash and investments of the Company. As of December 31, 2019,approximately 9.3% of the total assets of the Company were not qualifying assets under Section 55(a) of the 1940 Act.
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
87
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments
December 31, 2018
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (A) Advertising, Public Relations and Marketing
Foursquare Labs, Inc.
First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan (5.0% ExitFee)
LIBOR (Q)
—
8.81%
11.56%
6/1/2020
$ 22,500,000
$ 22,288,567
$ 22,343,623
1.37%
L/N
InMobi, Inc. (Singapore) First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.37% 8.13% 10.88% 9/30/2021 $ 37,775,057 37,432,000 37,727,838 2.32% H/N
59,720,567 60,071,461 3.69% Air Transportation
Mesa Airlines, Inc.
Engine AcquisitionDelayed Draw Term LoanA
LIBOR (Q)
—
7.25%
9.81%
12/14/2021
$ 12,945,769
12,802,291
13,130,247
0.81%
N
Mesa Airlines, Inc.
Engine AcquisitionDelayed Draw Term LoanB
LIBOR (Q)
—
7.25%
9.81%
2/28/2022
$ 7,683,837
7,594,071
7,793,332
0.48%
N
Mesa Airlines, Inc.
Engine AcquisitionDelayed Draw Term LoanC
LIBOR (Q)
—
7.25%
9.81%
7/31/2022
$ 3,205,798
3,166,674
3,296,682
0.20%
N
Mesa Airlines, Inc.
Engine AcquisitionDelayed Draw Term LoanC-1
LIBOR (Q)
—
7.25%
9.81%
9/30/2022
$ 4,912,965
4,845,174
5,051,510
0.31%
N
Mesa Airlines, Inc. Engine Acquisition Termloan C-3 LIBOR (Q) — 7.25% 9.81% 2/28/2023 $ 1,353,738 1,332,947 1,391,236 0.08% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N902FJ) LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 10.04% 2/1/2022 $ 1,027,521 1,018,433 1,014,163 0.06% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N903FJ) LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 10.04% 2/1/2022 $ 1,229,633 1,218,758 1,213,648 0.07% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N904FJ) LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 10.04% 2/1/2022 $ 1,406,638 1,394,198 1,388,352 0.09% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N905FJ) LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 10.04% 2/1/2022 $ 979,415 970,753 966,683 0.06% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N906FJ) LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 10.04% 5/1/2022 $ 1,021,301 1,012,097 1,008,024 0.06% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N907FJ) LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 10.04% 5/1/2022 $ 1,071,436 1,061,780 1,057,507 0.07% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N908FJ) LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 10.04% 5/1/2022 $ 1,648,638 1,633,781 1,627,206 0.10% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N909FJ) LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 10.04% 8/1/2022 $ 683,862 677,658 674,972 0.04% N
Mesa Air Group, Inc. Junior Loan Agreement(N910FJ) LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 10.04% 8/1/2022 $ 647,598 641,723 639,179 0.04% N
39,370,338 40,252,741 2.47% Amusement and Recreation
Blue Star SportsHoldings, Inc. First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 5.75% 8.22% 6/15/2024 $ — (15,165) — — K/N
Blue Star SportsHoldings, Inc. First Lien Revolver LIBOR (M) 1.00% 5.75% 8.22% 6/15/2024 $ 122,222 119,176 119,139 0.01% N
Blue Star SportsHoldings, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 5.75% 8.22% 6/15/2024 $ 1,500,000 1,472,068 1,472,250 0.09% N
Machine Zone, Inc. First Lien Term Loan(10.0% Exit Fee) LIBOR (M) — 13.50% 15.85% 2/1/2021 $ 5,502,976 5,439,653 5,414,929 0.33% L/N
VSS-Southern Holdings,LLC (Southern Theatres)
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (Q)
1.00%
6.50%
Cash+2.00%PIK
11.30%
11/3/2020
$ 23,739,142
23,504,334
24,037,068
1.48%
N
VSS-Southern Holdings,LLC (Southern Theatres)
Sr Secured Revolver
LIBOR (Q)
1.00%
6.50%
Cash+2.00%PIK
11.30%
11/3/2020
$ 856,164
848,517
856,165
0.05%
N
VSS-Southern Holdings,LLC (Southern Theatres)
First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan
LIBOR (Q)
1.00%
6.50%
Cash+2.00%PIK
11.30%
11/2/2022
$ 1,415,726
1,402,020
1,433,494
0.09%
N
32,770,603 33,333,045 2.05% Building Equipment Contractors
Hylan Datacom &Electrical, LLC First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 7.50% 10.02% 7/25/2021 $ 2,496,448 2,442,261 2,490,207 0.15% N
Hylan Datacom &Electrical, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 7.50% 10.02% 7/25/2021 $ 13,807,225 13,691,491 13,772,707 0.85% N
TCFI Amteck Holdings,LLC First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR (Q) — 6.25% 9.06% 5/22/2023 $ 481,249 472,488 487,746 0.03% N
TCFI Amteck Holdings,LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) — 6.25% 9.06% 5/22/2023 $ 16,046,661 15,753,256 16,263,291 1.00% N
32,359,496 33,013,951 2.03%
88
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2018
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (continued) Business Support Services
STG-FairwayAcquisitions, Inc.(FirstAdvantage)
Second Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (Q)
1.00%
9.25%
11.96%
6/30/2023
$ 31,000,000
$ 30,671,781
$ 31,000,000
1.91%
N
Chemicals
Nanosys, Inc.
First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan (3.5% ExitFee)
LIBOR (Q)
—
9.81%
12.56%
4/1/2019
$ 5,773,290
5,728,080
5,799,558
0.36%
L/N
Computer Systems Design and Related Services
Fidelis Acquisitionco,LLC First Lien Term Loan B LIBOR (M) — 8.00% PIK 10.44% 12/31/2022 $ 25,904,525 25,904,525 22,562,841 1.39% N
Fidelis Acquisitionco,LLC First Lien Term Loan C LIBOR (M) — 10.00% PIK 12.44% 12/31/2022 $ 25,240,108 25,240,108 21,663,585 1.33% N
51,144,633 44,226,426 2.72% Construction
Brannan Sand GravelCompany, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) — 5.25% 8.06% 7/3/2023 $ 9,403,553 9,272,489 9,417,659 0.58% N
Credit (Nondepository)
Auto Trakk SPV, LLC First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR (M) 0.50% 6.50% 8.96% 12/21/2021 $ 22,432,442 22,185,057 22,498,697 1.38% N
CFG Investments Limited(Caribbean FinancialGroup) (Cayman Islands)
Subordinated Class BNotes
Fixed
—
9.42%
9.42%
11/15/2026
$ 28,314,000
27,452,195
28,998,633
1.78%
E/G/H
RSB-160, LLC (Lat20) First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 6.00% 8.80% 7/20/2022 $ 3,833,333 3,762,444 3,765,867 0.23% N
RSB-160, LLC (Lat20) First Lien IncrementalDelayed Draw Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 6.00% 8.80% 7/20/2022 $ — — 10,646 — N
53,399,696 55,273,843 3.39% Credit Related Activities
Pegasus BusinessIntelligence, LP (OnyxCentersource)
First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan
LIBOR (Q)
1.00%
6.25%
9.06%
12/20/2021
$ 5,737,148
5,737,148
5,823,206
0.36%
N
Pegasus BusinessIntelligence, LP (OnyxCentersource)
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (Q)
1.00%
6.25%
9.06%
12/20/2021
$ 14,278,605
14,188,274
14,492,784
0.89%
N
Pegasus BusinessIntelligence, LP (OnyxCentersource)
Revolver
LIBOR (Q)
1.00%
6.25%
9.06%
12/20/2021
$ —
(4,047)
—
—
K/N
Pacific Union Financial,LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 7.50% 9.85% 4/21/2022 $ 24,583,333 24,410,715 24,891,854 1.53% N
44,332,090 45,207,844 2.78% Data Processing and Hosting Services
Applause App Quality,Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 5.00% 7.48% 9/20/2022 $ 20,772,306 20,444,242 20,634,170 1.27% N
Applause App Quality,Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (M) 1.00% 5.00% 7.48% 9/20/2022 $ — (22,511) (10,040) — K/N
Datto, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.00% 10.46% 12/7/2022 $ 27,792,848 27,330,546 27,695,573 1.70% NDatto, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.00% 10.46% 12/7/2022 $ — (29,490) (6,547) — K/NDigiCert Holdings, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.00% 10.52% 10/31/2025 $ 9,590,821 9,562,544 9,339,062 0.57% GDomo, Inc.
First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan (4.5% ExitFee)
LIBOR (Q)
—
5.50%
Cash+2.50%PIK
10.50%
6/1/2021
$ 50,827,704
50,270,460
50,601,521
3.11%
L/N
Donuts Inc. First Lien Revolver LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 6.25% 9.05% 9/17/2023 $ 373,849 344,520 363,194 0.02% NDonuts Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 6.25% 9.05% 9/17/2023 $ 10,965,517 10,652,302 10,653,000 0.66% NPulse Secure, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 7.00% 9.39% 5/1/2022 $ 11,384,532 11,264,016 11,430,070 0.70% NPulse Secure, LLC Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (M) 1.00% 7.00% 9.39% 5/1/2022 $ — (13,473) — — K/NSnapLogic, Inc.
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (Q)
—
7.81%
Cash+2.00%PIK
12.56%
3/1/2022
$ 31,313,470
30,684,121
31,313,470
1.93%
N
TierPoint, LLC Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 7.25% 9.77% 5/5/2025 $ 4,275,000 4,234,570 4,058,578 0.25% Web.com Group Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) — 7.75% 10.17% 10/11/2026 $ 23,493,200 23,320,082 23,317,001 1.43% J/N
188,041,929 189,389,052 11.64%
89
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2018
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (continued) Diversified Software
Acronis InternationalGmbH (Switzerland) First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 11.50%Cash+2.00%
PIK 16.31% 7/16/2020 $ 15,196,285 $ 15,200,725 $ 15,196,285 0.94 % H/N
ArcServe (USA), LLC Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 0.50% 8.50% Cash+1.25%PIK 12.55% 1/31/2020 $ 31,075,558 30,932,264 30,997,869 1.91 % N
Autoalert, LLC First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR (Q) 0.25% 5.75% Cash+3.00%PIK 11.19% 12/31/2020 $ 37,886,155 37,654,959 38,113,472 2.35 % N
Autoalert, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 0.25% 5.75% Cash+3.00%PIK 11.19% 12/31/2020 $ 14,993,418 14,790,062 15,083,378 0.93 % N
Bond InternationalSoftware, Inc. (UnitedKingdom)
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (M)
1.00%
10.00%
12.40%
11/4/2021
$ 26,358,696
25,955,777
25,122,473
1.55 %
H/N
Certify, Inc. First Lien FILO TermLoan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 6.25% 8.77% 1/30/2022 $ 15,863,835 15,632,297 15,625,877 0.96 % N
DealerFX, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) — 6.25% Cash+2.00%PIK 11.06% 2/1/2023 $ 16,016,055 15,742,618 16,118,558 0.99 % N
ECI Macola/MaxHolding, LLC Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 8.00% 10.80% 9/19/2025 $ 24,840,563 24,634,138 24,343,752 1.50 % N
Fishbowl, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) — 4.80% Cash+8.45%PIK 16.06% 1/26/2022 $ 21,976,505 21,542,497 20,751,314 1.28 % N
iCIMS, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 6.50% 9.02% 9/12/2024 $ 7,851,765 7,699,495 7,698,655 0.47 % NiCIMS, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 6.50% 9.02% 9/12/2024 $ — (9,323) (9,569) — K/NJAMF Holdings, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 8.00% 10.61% 11/13/2022 $ 14,160,797 13,927,609 13,990,868 0.86 % NJAMF Holdings, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 8.00% 10.61% 11/13/2022 $ — (18,815) (14,569) — K/NLithium Technologies,LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.00% 10.39% 10/3/2022 $ 20,884,731 20,520,511 20,529,691 1.26 % N
Lithium Technologies,LLC Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.00% 10.39% 10/3/2022 $ — (25,897) (25,978) — K/N
Lithium Technologies,LLC First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.00% 10.39% 10/3/2022 $ 7,131,905 6,977,108 7,010,663 0.43 % N
Lithium Technologies,LLC Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.00% 10.39% 10/3/2022 $ — (9,610) (7,739) — K/N
Space Midco, Inc.(Archibus) First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) — 6.25% 8.69% 12/5/2023 $ 4,444,444 4,356,066 4,355,556 0.27 % N
Space Midco, Inc.(Archibus) Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (M) — 6.25% 8.69% 12/5/2023 $ — (5,473) (5,556) — K/N
Team Software, Inc. First Lien Revolver LIBOR (Q) — 5.50% 8.31% 9/17/2023 $ — (49,632) (49,508) — K/NTeam Software, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) — 5.50% 8.31% 9/17/2023 $ 13,167,038 12,979,534 12,981,383 0.80 % NTelarix, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 6.00% 8.47% 11/19/2023 $ 7,500,000 7,388,692 7,387,500 0.45 % NTelarix, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (M) 1.00% 6.00% 8.47% 11/19/2023 $ — (5,231) (5,357) — K/NTradeshift Holdings,Inc.
First Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan (7.0%Exit Fee)
LIBOR (Q)
—
8.88%
11.63%
9/1/2020
$ 19,117,528
18,692,528
19,569,008
1.20 %
L/N
Utilidata, Inc.
First Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan (4.0%Exit Fee)
LIBOR (Q)
—
9.88%
12.63%
6/1/2019
$ 1,973,398
1,955,853
1,888,937
0.12 %
L/N
Xactly Corporation First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.25% 9.78% 7/31/2022 $ 2,726,918 2,680,492 2,726,918 0.17 % N
Xactly Corporation First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.25% 9.78% 7/31/2022 $ 16,397,517 16,146,078 16,397,517 1.01 % NXactly Corporation Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.25% 9.78% 7/31/2022 $ — (20,188) — — K/N
315,265,134 315,771,398 19.45 % Educational Support Services
Edmentum, Inc. First Lien Term Loan B LIBOR (Q) — 8.50% 11.03% 6/9/2021 $ 6,187,476 5,276,592 6,187,478 0.38 % B/NEdmentum, Inc. Junior RevolvingFacility Fixed — 5.00% 5.00% 6/9/2020 $ 1,153,071 1,153,071 1,153,076 0.07 % B/N
Edmentum, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan Fixed — 7.00% PIK 7.00% 12/8/2021 $ 7,719,061 7,719,061 7,719,069 0.47 % B/NEdmentum UltimateHoldings, LLC Sr PIK Notes Fixed — 8.50% 8.50% 6/9/2020 $ 3,375,453 3,375,453 3,375,453 0.21 % B/N
Edmentum UltimateHoldings, LLC Jr PIK Notes Fixed — 10.00% 10.00% 6/9/2020 $ 15,931,540 15,700,810 11,152,078 0.69 % B/N
33,224,987 29,587,154 1.82 % Electronic Component Manufacturing
Adesto TechnologiesCorporation First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 8.75% 11.56% 5/8/2022 $ 17,816,424 16,762,198 16,979,052 1.04 % N
Soraa, Inc. Tranche A Term Loan(4.33% Exit Fee) LIBOR (Q) 0.44% 9.33% 12.15% 12/31/2019 $ 5,425,530 5,345,178 5,042,759 0.31 % L/N
22,107,376 22,021,811 1.35 %
90
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2018
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (continued) Equipment Leasing
36th Street CapitalPartners Holdings, LLC Senior Note Fixed — 12.00% 12.00% 11/1/2020 $ 27,839,419 $ 27,839,419 $ 27,839,419 1.71 % E/F/N/O
Financial Investment Activities
Aretec Group, Inc.(Cetera) Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) — 8.25% 10.77% 10/1/2026 $ 27,105,263 26,835,011 26,969,737 1.66 % N
Credit Suisse AG(Cayman Islands) Asset-Backed CreditLinked Notes LIBOR (M) — 9.50% 11.80% 4/12/2025 $ 38,000,000 38,000,000 36,540,800 2.25 % H/I/N
HighTower Holding,LLC Second Lien DelayedDraw Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 8.25% 10.77% 1/31/2026 $ — (123,019) (135,726) (0.01)% K/N
HighTower Holding,LLC Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.25% 10.64% 1/31/2026 $ 15,080,645 14,696,998 14,748,871 0.91 % N
Institutional ShareholderServices, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.75% 10.55% 10/16/2025 $ 4,333,333 4,314,098 4,268,333 0.26 % N
83,723,088 82,392,015 5.07 % Health Care
Pacific Coast HoldingsInvestment, LLC (KPCHealthcare)
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (M)
1.00%
7.50%
10.02%
2/14/2021
$ 29,288,064
29,037,391
29,727,385
1.83 %
N
Insurance
2-10 Holdco, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) — 6.25% 8.77% 10/31/2024 $ 4,583,333 4,493,433 4,491,667 0.28 % N2-10 Holdco, Inc. Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (M) — 6.25% 8.77% 10/31/2024 $ — (8,102) (8,333) — K/NHigginbotham InsuranceAgency, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 7.25% 9.76% 12/19/2025 $ 16,417,578 16,312,313 16,253,402 1.00 % N
IAS Investco, Inc. First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan A LIBOR (M) 1.00% 5.50% 8.02% 1/24/2021 $ 5,610,000 5,569,506 5,565,120 0.34 % N
IAS Investco, Inc. First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan B LIBOR (M) 1.00% 5.50% 8.02% 1/24/2021 $ 600,000 588,544 586,286 0.04 % N
IAS Investco, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 5.50% 8.02% 1/24/2021 $ 4,178,571 4,148,342 4,145,143 0.26 % NUS Apple Holdco, LLC(Ventiv Technology) First Lien FILO TermLoan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.96% 10.57% 8/15/2020 $ 20,151,515 20,017,875 20,092,068 1.24 % N
US Apple Holdco, LLC(Ventiv Technology)
First Lien IncrementalTranche B FILO TermLoan
LIBOR (Q)
1.00%
7.96%
10.57%
8/15/2020
$ 4,371,000
4,329,254
4,358,106
0.27 %
N
US Apple Holdco, LLC(Ventiv Technology)
First Lien IncrementalTranche B FILO TermLoan
LIBOR (Q)
1.00%
7.00%
9.81%
8/15/2020
$ 12,000,000
11,941,059
11,964,600
0.74 %
N
67,392,224 67,448,059 4.17 % Lessors of Nonfinancial Licenses
ABG IntermediateHoldings 2, LLC(Authentic Brands)
Second Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (M)
1.00%
7.75%
10.27%
9/29/2025
$ 15,000,000
14,897,544
14,775,000
0.91 %
N
Kenneth ColeProductions, Inc. First Lien FILO TermLoan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.75% 10.31% 12/28/2023 $ 24,445,537 24,261,768 24,449,204 1.50 % N
PSEB, LLC (EddieBauer) First Lien FILO II TermLoan Prime — 7.25% 12.75% 10/12/2023 $ 10,793,402 10,503,078 10,496,583 0.65 % N
PSEB, LLC (EddieBauer) First Lien Term Loan Prime — 7.00% 12.25% 10/12/2023 $ 41,374,706 40,270,155 40,236,902 2.48 % N
89,932,545 89,957,689 5.54 % Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services
Dodge Data & Analytics,LLC First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.00% 9.81% 5/1/2020 $ 939,723 937,704 938,078 0.06 % N
Dodge Data & Analytics,LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.00% 9.81% 5/1/2020 $ 38,013,149 37,925,182 37,946,626 2.33 % N
38,862,886 38,884,704 2.39 % Metal Manufacturing
Neenah FoundryCompany First Lien Term Loan B LIBOR (Q) — 6.50% 9.12% 12/13/2022 $ 5,218,642 5,173,487 5,166,455 0.32 % N
Motion Picture and Video Industries
NEG Holdings, LLC(CORE Entertainment,Inc.)
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (Q)
1.00%
8.00% PIK
10.80%
10/17/2022
$ 1,574,099
1,574,099
1,574,099
0.10 %
B/N
91
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2018
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (continued) Other Information Services
Discoverorg, LLC Second Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 8.50% 11.03% 2/26/2024 $ 3,419,277 $ 3,404,541 $ 3,435,005 0.21 % N
Discoverorg, LLC Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 8.50% 11.03% 2/26/2024 $ 12,839,252 12,738,498 12,898,312 0.79 % N
16,143,039 16,333,317 1.00 % Other Manufacturing
AGY Holding Corp. Sr Secured Term Loan Fixed — 12.00% 12.00% 5/18/2020 $ 4,869,577 4,869,577 4,869,577 0.30 % B/NAGY Holding Corp. Second Lien Notes Fixed — 11.00% 11.00% 11/15/2020 $ 9,777,740 8,096,057 9,777,740 0.60 % B/E/NAGY Holding Corp. Delayed Draw Term Loan Fixed — 12.00% 12.00% 5/18/2020 $ 1,049,146 1,049,146 1,049,147 0.06 % B/N
14,014,780 15,696,464 0.96 % Other Real Estate Activities
Greystone SelectHoldings, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.00% 10.51% 4/17/2024 $ 25,076,693 24,873,125 25,828,994 1.59 % N
Other Telecommunications
Securus Technologies,Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.25% 10.77% 11/1/2025 $ 25,846,154 25,636,438 25,006,154 1.54 %
Pharmaceuticals
P&L Development, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 8.00% 10.40% 5/18/2022 $ 489,643 489,643 460,460 0.03 % N
Plastics Manufacturing
Iracore International, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 9.00% 11.63% 4/13/2021 $ 1,900,733 1,900,733 1,900,733 0.12 % B/N
Publishing
Bisnow, LLC First Lien Revolver LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 9.94% 9/21/2022 $ — (14,023) (1,800) — K/NBisnow, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) — 7.50% 9.94% 9/21/2022 $ 11,412,284 11,255,232 11,395,166 0.70 % NPatient Point NetworkSolutions, LLC First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.50% 10.30% 6/26/2022 $ 6,783,498 6,717,412 6,825,895 0.42 % N
Patient Point NetworkSolutions, LLC Sr Secured Revolver LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.50% 10.30% 6/26/2022 $ — (3,994) — — K/N
Patient Point NetworkSolutions, LLC First Lien IncrementalTerm Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.50% 10.30% 6/26/2022 $ 1,307,421 1,291,842 1,315,592 0.08 % N
19,246,469 19,534,853 1.20 % Radio and Television Broadcasting
NEP II, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) — 7.00% 9.52% 10/19/2026 $ 18,769,990 18,676,292 17,737,641 1.09 % G/N
Real Estate Leasing
Daymark FinancialAcceptance, LLC First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR (M) — 9.50% 11.85% 1/12/2020 $ 14,000,000 13,945,511 13,878,900 0.85 % N
Home Partners ofAmerica, Inc. First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 6.25% 8.77% 10/13/2022 $ — — 19,286 — N
Home Partners ofAmerica, Inc. First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 6.25% 8.77% 10/13/2022 $ 2,857,143 2,817,711 2,840,000 0.17 % N
16,763,222 16,738,186 1.02 % Retail
USR Parent, Inc.(Staples) First Lien FILO TermLoan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.84% 11.18% 9/12/2022 $ 7,525,874 7,376,741 7,531,142 0.46 % N
Satellite Telecommunications
Avanti CommunicationsGroup, PLC (UnitedKingdom)
Sr New Money InitialNote
Fixed
—
9.00% PIK
9.00%
10/1/2022
$ 1,524,339
1,491,697
1,152,172
0.07 %
E/G/H/N
Avanti CommunicationsGroup, PLC (UnitedKingdom)
Sr Second-Priority PIKToggle Note
Fixed
—
9.00%
9.00%
10/1/2022
$ 3,889,686
3,808,971
2,940,019
0.18 %
E/G/H/N
5,300,668 4,092,191 0.25 %
92
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2018
Issuer Instrument Ref Floor Spread TotalCoupon Maturity Principal Cost Fair
Value % of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Debt Investments (continued) Scientific Research and Development Services
Envigo Holdings, Inc.(BPA Laboratories, Inc.)(United Kingdom)
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (Q)
—
5.75%
8.55%
4/29/2020
$ 1,857,267
$ 1,747,856
$ 1,792,262
0.11 %
H/N
Envigo Holdings, Inc.(BPA Laboratories, Inc.)(United Kingdom)
Second Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (Q)
—
7.75%
10.55%
4/29/2020
$ 4,189,589
2,787,441
3,906,792
0.24 %
H/N
Envigo Holdings, Inc.(BPA Laboratories, Inc.)(United Kingdom)
First Lien Term Loan
LIBOR (M)
1.00%
8.50%
10.93%
11/3/2021
$ 34,494,622
34,071,469
32,769,891
2.02 %
G/H/N
38,606,766 38,468,945 2.37 % Support Activities for Rail Transportation
Florida East CoastIndustries, LLC First Lien Term Loan B LIBOR (M) — 6.50% 8.93% 12/13/2021 $ 3,214,286 3,150,403 3,182,143 0.20 % N
Traveler Arrangement
CIBT Solutions, Inc. Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 7.75% 10.55% 6/1/2025 $ 7,611,914 7,544,882 7,516,765 0.46 % G/N
Utility System Construction
Conergy Asia & ME Pte.Ltd (Singapore) First Lien Term Loan Fixed — 10.00% 10.00% 5/26/2020 $ 1,773,807 1,773,807 1,773,807 0.11 % F/H/N
GlassPoint Solar, Inc. First Lien Term Loan(4.0% Exit Fee) LIBOR (Q) — 8.50% 11.25% 8/1/2020 $ 5,434,622 5,387,085 5,355,005 0.33 % L/N
GlassPoint Solar, Inc. First Lien Term Loan(5.0% Exit Fee) LIBOR (Q) — 11.44% 14.19% 8/1/2020 $ 2,951,368 2,798,858 2,958,156 0.18 % L/N
Kawa Solar HoldingsLimited (Conergy)(Cayman Islands)
Bank Guarantee CreditFacility
Fixed
—
0.00%
0.00%
5/26/2020
$ 14,155,971
14,155,971
11,682,923
0.72 %
C/F/H/N
Kawa Solar HoldingsLimited (Conergy)(Cayman Islands)
Revolving Credit Facility
Fixed
—
0.00%
0.00%
5/26/2020
$ 8,668,850
8,668,850
2,922,269
0.18 %
C/F/H/N
32,784,571 24,692,160 1.52 % Wholesalers
FreePoint Commodities,LLC Second Lien Term Loan LIBOR (M) 1.00% 8.25% 10.71% 6/13/2023 $ 15,000,000 14,855,083 14,875,500 0.92 % N
Wired Telecommunications Carriers
American BroadbandHolding Company First Lien Term Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.25% 7.75% 10.55% 10/25/2022 $ 17,500,308 17,152,164 17,363,805 1.07 % N
TPC IntermediateHoldings, LLC First Lien Delayed DrawTerm Loan LIBOR (Q) 1.00% 6.00% 8.80% 5/15/2023 $ 807,706 789,592 794,042 0.05 % N
17,941,756 18,157,847 1.12 % Total Debt Investments 1,526,248,949 1,515,109,263 93.22 %
93
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2018
Issuer Instrument Expiration Shares Cost FairValue
% of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Equity Securities Advertising, Public Relations and Marketing
Foursquare Labs, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries E Preferred Stock 5/4/2027 1,125,000 $ 185,450 $ 130,725 0.01% C/E/N
InMobi, Inc.(Singapore) Warrants to Purchase
Common Stock 8/15/2027 1,327,869 212,360 340,200 0.02% C/E/H/N
InMobi, Inc.(Singapore)
Warrants to PurchaseSeries E Preferred Stock(Strike Price $20.01)
9/18/2025
1,049,996
276,492
558,388
0.03%
C/E/H/N
InMobi, Inc.(Singapore)
Warrants to PurchaseSeries E Preferred Stock(Strike Price $28.58)
10/3/2028
1,511,002
93,407
164,095
0.01%
C/E/H/N
767,709 1,193,408 0.07% Air Transportation
Aircraft Leased to United Airlines, Inc. United N659UA-767,LLC (N659UA) Trust Beneficial Interests 683 2,527,274 2,826,708 0.17% E/F/N
United N661UA-767,LLC (N661UA) Trust Beneficial Interests 688 2,608,991 2,896,083 0.18% E/F/N
Epic Aero, Inc (One Sky) Common Stock 1,842 855,313 5,030,670 0.31% C/N
5,991,578 10,753,461 0.66% Business Support Services
Findly Talent, LLC Membership Units 708,229 230,938 33,995 — C/E/NSTG-FairwayHoldings, LLC (FirstAdvantage)
Class A Units
803,961
325,432
2,708,384
0.17%
C/E/N
556,370 2,742,379 0.17% Chemicals
Green Biologics, Inc. Common Stock 34,761,145 18,522,593 3,670,777 0.23 B/C/E/H/NNanosys, Inc. Warrants to Purchase
Preferred Stock 3/29/2023 800,000 605,266 814,640 0.05 C/E/N
19,127,859 4,485,417 0.28% Computer Systems Design and Related Services
Fidelis Topco LP Warrants to PurchaseSeries A Preferred Units 7/20/2028 21,888,917 — 663,234 0.04 C/E/N
Fidelis Topco LP Warrants to PurchaseSeries B Preferred Units 7/20/2028 24,972,917 — 756,679 0.05 C/E/N
— 1,419,913 0.09% Data Processing and Hosting Services
Anacomp, Inc. Class A Common Stock 1,255,527 26,711,048 1,418,746 0.09 C/E/F/NDomo, Inc. Warrants to Purchase
Common Stock 12/30/2027 33,993 264,624 296,840 0.02 C/E/N
Snaplogic, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries Preferred Stock 3/19/2028 1,860,000 377,722 2,510,070 0.15 C/E/N
27,353,394 4,225,656 0.26% Diversified Software
Actifio, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries G Preferred Stock 5/5/2027 1,052,651 188,770 456,745 0.03 C/E/N
Tradeshift, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries D Preferred Stock 3/26/2027 1,712,930 577,843 647,316 0.04 C/E/N
Utilidata, Inc. Warrants to PurchasePreferred Stock 12/22/2022 719,998 216,336 9,936 — C/E/N
982,949 1,113,997 0.07% Educational Support Services
Edmentum UltimateHoldings, LLC Class A Common Units 159,515 680,226 — — B/C/E/N
Edmentum UltimateHoldings, LLC Warrants to Purchase
Class A Units 2/23/2028 788,112 — — — B/C/E/N
680,226 — —
94
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2018
Issuer Instrument Expiration Shares Cost FairValue
% of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Equity Securities (continued) Electronic Component Manufacturing
Adesto TechnologiesCorporation Warrants to Purchase
Common Stock 5/8/2024 436,320 $ 846,724 $ 76,356 — C/E/N
Soraa, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseCommon Stock 8/29/2024 3,071,860 478,899 207,658 0.01% C/E/N
1,325,623 284,014 0.01% Equipment Leasing
36th Street CapitalPartners Holdings, LLC Membership Units 15,744,416 15,744,416 18,931,734 1.16% E/F/N/O
Financial Investment Activities
GACP I, LP (GreatAmerican Capital) Membership Units 5,919,194 5,919,194 6,590,430 0.41% E/I/N
GACP II, LP (GreatAmerican Capital) Membership Units 16,861,296 16,861,296 17,308,120 1.06% E/I/N
22,780,490 23,898,550 1.47% Metal and Mineral Mining
EPMC HoldCo, LLC Membership Units 1,312,720 — 26,254 — B/C/E/N
Motion Picture and Video Industries
NEG Parent, LLC (CoreEntertainment, Inc.) Class A Units 2,720,392 2,772,807 6,543,086 0.40% B/C/E/N
NEG Parent, LLC (CoreEntertainment, Inc.) Class A Warrants to
Purchase Class A Units 10/17/2026 343,387 196,086 364,299 0.02% B/C/E/N
NEG Parent, LLC (CoreEntertainment, Inc.) Class B Warrants to
Purchase Class A Units 10/17/2026 346,794 198,032 367,914 0.02% B/C/E/N
NEG Parent, LLC (CoreEntertainment, Inc.) Litigation Trust Units 407 — 1,118,110 0.07% B/C/N
3,166,925 8,393,409 0.51% Other Information Services
SoundCloud, Ltd. (UnitedKingdom) Warrants to Purchase
Preferred Stock 4/29/2025 946,498 79,082 45,148 — C/E/H/N
Other Manufacturing
AGY Holding Corp. Common Stock 1,333,527 — — — B/C/E/NKAGY HoldingCompany, Inc. Series A Preferred Stock 9,778 1,091,200 969,224 0.06% B/C/E/N
1,091,200 969,224 0.06% Plastics Manufacturing
Iracore InvestmentsHoldings, Inc. Class A Common Stock 16,207 4,177,710 1,375,243 0.08% B/C/E/N
Radio and Television Broadcasting
Fuse Media, LLC Warrants to PurchaseCommon Stock 8/3/2022 233,470 300,322 — — C/E/N
Retail
Shop Holding, LLC(Connexity) Class A Units 507,167 480,049 — — C/E/N
Satellite Telecommunications
Avanti CommunicationsGroup, PLC (UnitedKingdom)
Common Stock
26,576,710
4,902,674
847,398
0.05%
C/D/H
95
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2018
Issuer Instrument Expiration Shares Cost FairValue
% of TotalCash and
Investments Notes
Equity Securities (continued) Scientific Research and Development Services
Lions Holdings, Inc.(Envigo) (UnitedKingdom)
Series A Warrants toPurchase Common Stock
4/29/2020
10,287
$ —
$ —
—
C/E/H/N
Lions Holdings, Inc.(Envigo) (UnitedKingdom)
Series B Warrants toPurchase Common Stock
4/29/2020
16,494
—
—
—
C/E/H/N
— — — Utility System Construction
Conergy Asia HoldingsLimited (UnitedKingdom)
Class B Shares
1,000,000
1,000,000
—
—
C/E/F/H/N
Conergy Asia HoldingsLimited (UnitedKingdom)
Ordinary Shares
3,333
7,833,333
—
—
C/E/F/H/N
GlassPoint Solar, Inc. Warrants to PurchaseSeries D Preferred Stock 2/7/2027 448,000 76,950 50,714 — C/E/N
GlassPoint Solar, Inc.
Warrants to PurchaseSeries C-1 PreferredStock
2/7/2027
400,000
248,555
221,320
0.01%
C/E/N
Kawa Solar HoldingsLimited (Conergy)(Cayman Islands)
Ordinary Shares
2,332,594
—
—
—
C/E/F/H/N
Kawa Solar HoldingsLimited (Conergy)(Cayman Islands)
Series B Preferred Shares
93,023
1,395,349
—
—
C/E/F/H/N
10,554,187 272,034 0.01%
Wired Telecommunications Carriers V Telecom InvestmentS.C.A. (Vivacom)(Luxembourg)
Common Shares
1,393
3,236,256
1,199,288
0.07%
C/D/E/H/N
Total Equity Securities 123,299,019 82,176,527 5.06% Total Investments $ 1,649,547,968 $ 1,597,285,790
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash Held on Account at Various Institutions 27,920,402 1.72% Cash and Cash Equivalents 27,920,402 1.72% Total Cash and Investments $ 1,625,206,192 100.00% M
Notes to Consolidated Schedule of Investments:
(A) Debt investments include investments in bank debt that generally are bought and sold among institutional investors in transactions not subject to registration under the Securities Act of1933. Such transactions are generally subject to contractual restrictions, such as approval of the agent or borrower.
(B) Non-controlled affiliate – as defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (ownership of between 5% and 25% of the outstanding voting securities of this issuer). See ConsolidatedSchedule of Changes in Investments in Affiliates.
(C) Non-income producing.(D) Investment denominated in foreign currency. Amortized cost and fair value converted from foreign currency to US dollars. Foreign currency denominated investments are generally
hedged for currency exposure.(E) Restricted security. (See Note 2)(F) Controlled issuer – as defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (ownership of 25% or more of the outstanding voting securities of this issuer). Investment is not more than 50%
of the outstanding voting securities of the issuer nor deemed to be a significant subsidiary. See Consolidated Schedule of Changes in Investments in Affiliates.(G) Investment has been segregated to collateralize certain unfunded commitments.(H) Non-U.S. company or principal place of business outside the U.S. and as a result the investment is not a qualifying asset under Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act. Under the
Investment Company Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying asset unless, at the time such acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% of the Company'stotal assets.
(I) Deemed an investment company under Section 3(c) of the Investment Company Act and as a result the investment is not a qualifying asset under Section 55(a) of the Investment CompanyAct. Under the Investment Company Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying asset unless, at the time such acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% ofthe Company's total assets.
(J) Publicly traded company with a market capitalization greater than $250 million and as a result the investment is not a qualifying asset under Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act.Under the Investment Company Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying asset unless, at the time such acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% of theCompany's total assets.
(K) Negative balances relate to an unfunded commitment that was acquired and/or valued at a discount.
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Investments (Continued)
December 31, 2018
(L) In addition to the stated coupon, investment has an exit fee payable upon repayment of the loan in an amount equal to the percentage of the original principal amount shown.(M) All cash and investments, except those referenced in Notes G above, are pledged as collateral under certain debt as described in Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.(N) Inputs in the valuation of this investment included certain unobservable inputs that were significant to the valuation as a whole.(O) 36th Street Capital Partners Holdings, LLC holds common and preferred interests in a pool of equipment loans and leases made by 36th Street Capital Partners, LLC.
LIBOR or EURIBOR resets monthly (M), quarterly (Q), semiannually (S), or annually (A). Aggregate acquisitions and aggregate dispositions of investments, other than government securities, totaled $634,002,472 and $512,795,715, respectively, for the twelve months endedDecember 31, 2018. Aggregate acquisitions includes investment assets received as payment in kind. Aggregate dispositions includes principal paydowns on and maturities of debt investments.The total value of restricted securities and bank debt as of December 31, 2018 was $1,553,748,812 or 95.6% of total cash and investments of the Company. As of December 31, 2018,approximately 15.6% of the total assets of the Company were not qualifying assets under Section 55(a) of the 1940 Act.
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
97
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
Year Ended December 31, 2019 2018 2017 Investment income
Interest income (excluding PIK): Companies less than 5% owned $ 170,292,622 $ 168,673,628 $ 155,374,375 Companies 5% to 25% owned 2,750,461 2,713,602 2,117,440 Companies more than 25% owned 5,034,138 3,645,312 4,669,571
PIK interest income: Companies less than 5% owned 10,108,553 9,128,512 5,290,187 Companies 5% to 25% owned 3,398,235 4,337,080 4,900,886 Companies more than 25% owned — 649,680 1,174,886
Dividend income: Companies less than 5% owned — — 16,627 Companies more than 25% owned 2,392,274 750,714 237,398
Lease income: Companies more than 25% owned 297,827 297,827 294,366
Other income: Companies less than 5% owned 891,805 5,473 1,767,821 Companies 5% to 25% owned — 297,356 125,943
Total investment income 195,165,915 190,499,184 175,969,500 Operating expenses
Interest and other debt expenses 46,398,795 40,468,761 33,091,143 Management and advisory fees 24,860,910 24,179,376 21,560,868 Incentive fee 20,307,759 23,346,164 N/A * Administrative expenses 2,338,624 2,393,582 2,327,870 Legal fees, professional fees and due diligence expenses 1,756,480 2,307,196 1,485,182 Director fees 781,933 794,278 571,685 Insurance expense 591,728 468,184 436,965 Custody fees 410,852 377,611 335,841 Other operating expenses 2,860,741 2,686,677 2,721,946
Total operating expenses 100,307,822 97,021,829 62,531,500 Net investment income before taxes 94,858,093 93,477,355 113,438,000 Excise tax expense — 92,700 36,380 Net investment income 94,858,093 93,384,655 113,401,620 Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency
Net realized gain (loss): Investments in companies less than 5% owned (56,955,163) 856,650 (13,450,535) Investments in companies 5% to 25% owned (19,671,886) (29,704,298) (7,113,339) Investments in companies more than 25% owned — — (103,398)
Net realized loss (76,627,049) (28,847,648) (20,667,272)
Change in net unrealized appreciation/depreciation 12,349,745 (19,061,125) (2,123,011) Net realized and unrealized loss (64,277,304) (47,908,773) (22,790,283) Net increase in net assets from operations $ 30,580,789 $ 45,475,882 $ 90,611,337 Distributions of incentive allocation to general partner from:
Net investment income N/A * N/A * $ (22,680,323) Net increase in net assets resulting from operations $ 30,580,789 $ 45,475,882 $ 67,931,014
Basic and diluted earnings per common share $ 0.52 $ 0.77 $ 1.19
Basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding 58,766,362 58,815,216 57,000,658 *Effective January 1, 2018, incentive compensation was converted from a partnership profit allocation and distribution to a fee.
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets
Common Stock Paid in Capital in Excess of Par
Distributableearnings (loss)
Total Net Assets Shares
ParAmount
Balance at December 31, 2016 53,041,900 $ 53,042 $ 944,426,650 $ (153,543,701) $ 790,935,991
Issuance of common stock in public offering, net 5,750,000 5,750 93,591,750 — 93,597,500Issuance of common stock from at-the-market offerings, net 54,713 55 863,343 — 863,398Issuance of common stock from dividend reinvestment plan 643 — 10,585 — 10,585Net investment income — — — 113,401,620 113,401,620Net realized and unrealized loss — — — (22,790,283) (22,790,283)General partner incentive allocation — — — (22,680,323) (22,680,323)Regular dividends paid to common shareholders — — — (82,610,362) (82,610,362)Tax reclassification of shareholders' equity in accordance withgenerally accepted accounting principles — — (36,380) 36,380 —
Balance at December 31, 2017 58,847,256 $ 58,847 $ 1,038,855,948 $ (168,186,669) $ 870,728,126
Issuance of common stock from dividend reinvestment plan 767 — 10,693 — 10,693Repurchase of common stock (73,416) (72) (1,046,403) — (1,046,475)Net investment income — — — 93,384,655 93,384,655Net realized and unrealized loss — — — (47,908,773) (47,908,773)Regular dividends paid to common shareholders — — — (84,693,499) (84,693,499)Tax reclassification of shareholders' equity in accordance withgenerally accepted accounting principles — — (37,747,055) 37,747,055 —
Balance at December 31, 2018 58,774,607 $ 58,775 $ 1,000,073,183 $ (169,657,231) $ 830,474,727
Issuance of common stock from dividend reinvestment plan 819 — 11,453 — 11,453Repurchase of common stock (9,000) (9) (125,670) — (125,679)Net investment income — — — 94,858,093 94,858,093Net realized and unrealized loss — — — (64,277,304) (64,277,304)Regular dividends paid to common shareholders — — — (84,622,904) (84,622,904)Tax reclassification of shareholders' equity in accordance withgenerally accepted accounting principles — — (2,579,604) 2,579,604 —
Balance at December 31, 2019 58,766,426 $ 58,766 $ 997,379,362 $ (221,119,742) $ 776,318,386
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Year Ended December 31,
2019 2018 2017Operating activities Net increase in net assets applicable to common shareholders resulting from operations $ 30,580,789 $ 45,475,882 $ 67,931,014Adjustments to reconcile net increase in net assets applicable to common shareholders resulting
from operations to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Net realized loss 76,627,049 28,847,648 20,667,272Change in net unrealized appreciation/depreciation of investments (12,492,073) 19,034,390 2,131,838Net amortization of investment discounts and premiums (12,706,060) (10,032,111) (15,082,529)Amortization of original issue discount on convertible debt 1,355,080 1,183,036 1,044,816Interest and dividend income paid in kind (13,785,524) (14,115,272) (11,365,959)Amortization of deferred debt issuance costs 3,640,812 3,856,735 3,646,299Changes in assets and liabilities: Purchases of investment securities (686,238,590) (619,887,200) (854,061,998)Proceeds from sales, maturities and pay downs of investments 596,374,086 512,795,715 655,674,364Decrease (increase) in accrued interest income - companies less than 5% owned 3,961,499 (2,365,743) (2,742,146)Decrease in accrued interest income - companies 5% to 25% owned 12,892 139,927 135,577Decrease (increase) in accrued interest income - companies more than 25% owned (181,712) (107,150) 8,749Decrease (increase) in receivable for investments sold (1,316,667) 431,483 (431,483)Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses and other assets 4,772,120 (2,596,439) (3,660,424)Increase (decrease) in payable for investments purchased 12,148,687 (15,565,873) 4,125,707Increase (decrease) in incentive compensation payable (1,086,675) (142,789) 1,266,301Increase in interest payable 2,089,249 976,335 2,757,824Increase in payable to the Advisor 365,279 425,669 474,913Increase in management and advisory fees payable 181,731 5,247,344 —Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and other liabilities 391,382 27,868 (738,137)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 4,693,354 (46,370,545) (128,218,002)
Financing activities Borrowings 724,497,620 476,953,697 563,000,000Repayments of debt (712,000,000) (399,953,697) (584,500,000)Payments of debt issuance costs (5,178,707) (3,605,009) (3,471,000)Dividends paid to common shareholders (84,622,904) (84,693,499) (82,610,362)Repurchase of common shares (125,679) (1,046,475) —Repayment of convertible debt (108,000,000) — —Proceeds from issuance of debt 197,653,000 — 174,373,250Proceeds from shares issued in connection with dividend reinvestment plan 11,453 10,693 10,585Proceeds from common shares sold, net of underwriting and offering costs — — 94,460,898Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 12,234,783 (12,334,290) 161,263,371
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash) 16,928,137 (58,704,835) 33,045,369Cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash) at beginning of year 27,920,402 86,625,237 53,579,868Cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash) at end of year $ 44,848,539 $ 27,920,402 $ 86,625,237
Supplemental cash flow information Interest payments $ 38,216,149 $ 33,454,234 $ 24,067,375Excise tax payments $ — $ 86,106 $ 528,603
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2019
1. Organization and Nature of Operations
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp. (the “Company”), formerly known as TCP Capital Corp., is a Delaware corporation formed on April 2, 2012 as an externallymanaged, closed-end, non-diversified management investment company. The Company elected to be regulated as a business development company (“BDC”)under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). The Company’s investment objective is to achieve high total returns through currentincome and capital appreciation, with an emphasis on principal protection. The Company invests primarily in the debt of middle-market companies as well as smallbusinesses, including senior secured loans, junior loans, mezzanine debt and bonds. Such investments may include an equity component, and, to a lesser extent, theCompany may make equity investments directly. The Company was formed through the conversion on April 2, 2012 of the Company’s predecessor, Special ValueContinuation Fund, LLC, from a limited liability company to a corporation in a non-taxable transaction, leaving the Company as the surviving entity. On April 3,2012, the Company completed its initial public offering.
Investment operations are conducted through the Company's wholly-owned subsidiaries, Special Value Continuation Partners LLC, a Delaware limited liabilitycompany ("SVCP"), TCPC Funding I, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“TCPC Funding”), and TCPC SBIC, LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the“SBIC”). SVCP was organized as a limited partnership and had elected to be regulated as a BDC under the 1940 Act through July 31, 2018. On August 1, 2018,SVCP withdrew its election to be regulated as a BDC under the 1940 Act and withdrew the registration of its common limited partner interests under Section 12(g)of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and, on August 2, 2018, terminated its general partner, Series H of SVOF/MM, LLC, and converted to a Delaware limitedliability company. The SBIC was organized in June 2013, and, on April 22, 2014, received a license from the United States Small Business Administration (the“SBA”) to operate as a small business investment company under the provisions of Section 301(c) of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958. Theseconsolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, SVCP, TCPC Funding and the SBIC. All significant intercompany transactions andbalances have been eliminated in the consolidation.
The Company has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a RIC, the Company will not be taxedon its income to the extent that it distributes such income each year and satisfies other applicable income tax requirements. TCPC Funding and the SBIC haveelected to be treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes. SVCP was treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes through August1, 2018 and upon its conversion to a limited liability company on August 2, 2018 and thereafter is and will be treated as a disregarded entity.
Series H of SVOF/MM, LLC serves as the administrator of the Company (the “Administrator”). The managing member of SVOF/MM is Tennenbaum CapitalPartners, LLC (the “Advisor”), which serves as the investment manager to the Company, TCPC Funding, and the SBIC. On August 1, 2018, the Advisor mergedwith and into a wholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock Capital Investment Advisors, LLC, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc., with theAdvisor as the surviving entity.
Company management consists of the Advisor and the Company’s board of directors. The Advisor directs and executes the day-to-day operations of the Company,subject to oversight from the board of directors, which sets the broad policies of the Company. The board of directors of the Company has delegated investmentmanagement of SVCP’s assets to the Advisor. The board of directors consists of eight persons, six of whom are independent.
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States(“GAAP”). The Company is an investment company following accounting and reporting guidance in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 946,Financial Services – Investment
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — (continued)
Companies. The Company has consolidated the results of its wholly owned subsidiaries in its consolidated financial statements in accordance with ASC Topic 946.The following is a summary of the significant accounting policies of the Company.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect thereported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, as well the reportedamounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods presented. Although management believes these estimates and assumptions to be reasonable, actualresults could differ from those estimates and such differences could be material.
Investment Valuation
The Company’s investments are generally held by SVCP, TCPC Funding or the SBIC. Management values investments at fair value in accordance with GAAP,based upon the principles and methods of valuation set forth in policies adopted by the board of directors. Fair value is generally defined as the amount for whichan investment would be sold in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.
All investments are valued at least quarterly based on quotations or other affirmative pricing from independent third-party sources, with the exception ofinvestments priced directly by the Advisor which in the aggregate comprise less than 5% of the capitalization of the Company. Investments listed on a recognizedexchange or market quotation system, whether U.S. or foreign, are valued using the closing price on the date of valuation.
Investments not listed on a recognized exchange or market quotation system, but for which reliable market quotations are readily available are valued using pricesprovided by a nationally recognized pricing service or by using quotations from broker-dealers.
Investments for which market quotations are either not readily available or are determined to be unreliable are priced at fair value using affirmative valuationsperformed by independent valuation services approved by the board of directors or, for investments aggregating less than 5% of the total capitalization of theCompany, using valuations determined directly by the Advisor. Such valuations are determined under a documented valuation policy that has been reviewed andapproved by the board of directors.
Generally, to increase objectivity in valuing the investments, the Advisor will utilize external measures of value, such as public markets or third-party transactions,whenever possible. The Advisor’s valuation is not based on long-term work-out value, immediate liquidation value, nor incremental value for potential changesthat may take place in the future. The values assigned to investments are based on available information and do not necessarily represent amounts that mightultimately be realized, as these amounts depend on future circumstances and cannot reasonably be determined until the individual investments are actuallyliquidated. The foregoing policies apply to all investments, including any in companies and groups of affiliated companies aggregating more than 5% of theCompany’s assets.
Fair valuations of investments in each asset class are determined using one or more methodologies including market quotations, the market approach, incomeapproach, or, in the case of recent investments, the cost approach, as appropriate. The market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated bymarket transactions involving identical or comparable assets. Such information may include observed multiples of earnings and/or revenues at which transactionsin securities of comparable companies occur, with appropriate adjustments for differences in company size, operations or other factors affecting comparability.
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — (continued)
The income approach uses valuation techniques to convert future amounts (for example, cash flows or earnings) to a single present value amount (discounted). Themeasurement is based on the value indicated by current market expectations about those future amounts. The discount rates used for such analyses reflect marketyields for comparable investments, considering such factors as relative credit quality, capital structure, and other factors.
In following these approaches, the types of factors that may be taken into account also include, as relevant: available current market data, including relevant andapplicable market trading and transaction comparables, security covenants, call protection provisions, information rights, the nature and realizable value of anycollateral, the portfolio company’s ability to make payments, its earnings and cash flows, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, comparisonsof financial ratios of peer companies that are public, merger and acquisition comparables, comparable costs of capital, the principal market in which the investmenttrades and enterprise values, among other factors.
Investments may be categorized based on the types of inputs used in valuing such investments. The level in the GAAP valuation hierarchy in which an investmentfalls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the valuation of the investment in its entirety. Transfers between levels are recognized as of thebeginning of the reporting period.
At December 31, 2019, the Company’s investments were categorized as follows:
Level Basis for Determining Fair Value Bank Debt Other
Corporate Debt Equity
Securities1 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets $ — $ — $ —2 Other direct and indirect observable market inputs * 136,739,236 — —3
Independent third-party valuation sources that employ significantunobservable inputs
1,312,492,099
85,962,603
111,994,829
3 Advisor valuations with significant unobservable inputs — — 2,318,128
Total $ 1,449,231,335 $ 85,962,603 $ 114,312,957______________* For example, quoted prices in inactive markets or quotes for comparable investments
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — (continued)
Unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of Level 3 investments as of December 31, 2019 included the following:
Asset Type Fair Value Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range (Weighted Avg.) †
Bank Debt $ 1,147,288,529 Income approach Discount rate 6.7% - 46.3% (9.9%) 96,585,498 Market quotations Indicative bid/ask quotes 1 (1) 24,268,604 Market comparable companies Revenue multiples 3.6x - 4.4x (3.6x) 44,349,468 Market comparable companies EBITDA multiples 6.5x - 14.3x (10.8x)Other Corporate Debt 37,604,800 Income approach Discount rate 12.3% (12.3%)
40,834,419 Market comparable companies Book value multiples 1.3x (1.3x) 3,814,956 Market comparable companies Revenue multiples 4.4x (4.4x) 3,708,428 Market comparable companies EBITDA multiples 8.0x (8.0x)Equity 4,647,680 Income approach Discount rate 3.6% - 3.7% (3.7%) 14,412,746 Market quotations Indicative bid/ask quotes 1 (1) 18,048,138 Option Pricing Model EBITDA/Revenue multiples 1.2x - 27.2x (8.3x) Implied volatility 30.0% - 200.0% (27.4%) Yield 0.0% (0.0%) Term 0.5 years - 3.5 years (1.4 years) 2,012,088 Market comparable companies Revenue multiples 0.3x - 4.4x (2.0x) 22,360,141 Market comparable companies EBITDA multiples 2.5x - 14.3x (9.1x) 31,682,859 Market comparable companies Book value multiples 1.3x (1.3x) 21,149,305 Other * N/A N/A $ 1,512,767,659 ______________* Fair value was determined based on the most recently available net asset value of the issuer adjusted for identified changes in the valuations of the
underlying portfolio of the issuer through the measurement date.† Weighted by fair value
Certain fair value measurements may employ more than one valuation technique, with each valuation technique receiving a relative weight between 0% and 100%.Generally, a change in an unobservable input may result in a change to the value of an investment as follows:
Input Impact to Value if
Input Increases Impact to Value ifInput Decreases
Discount rate Decrease IncreaseRevenue multiples Increase DecreaseEBITDA multiples Increase DecreaseBook value multiples Increase DecreaseImplied volatility Increase DecreaseTerm Increase DecreaseYield Increase Decrease
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — (continued)
Changes in investments categorized as Level 3 during the year ended December 31, 2019 were as follows:
Independent Third-Party Valuation
Bank Debt Other
Corporate Debt Equity
SecuritiesBeginning balance $ 1,369,456,684 $ 78,250,150 $ 79,804,988Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) (53,280,257) (7,866,887) 19,690,320Acquisitions * 630,057,206 14,851,582 32,966,579Dispositions (521,431,948) (28,270,875) (15,422,094)Transfers into Level 3 † — 28,998,633 847,399Transfers out of Level 3 ‡ (112,309,586) — —Reclassifications within Level 3 § — — (5,892,363)
Ending balance $ 1,312,492,099 $ 85,962,603 $ 111,994,829
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation during the period on investmentsstill held at period end (included in net realized and unrealized gains/losses, above) $ (375,382) $ (6,320,449) $ 21,418,900
______________* Includes payments received in kind and accretion of original issue and market discounts
† Comprised of one investment that was transferred from Level 2 and one investment that was transferred from Level 1 due to reduced trading volumes ‡ Comprised of seven investments that were transferred to Level 2 due to increased observable market activity
§ Comprised of four investments that were reclassified to Advisor Valuation
Advisor Valuation
Bank Debt Other
Corporate Debt Equity
SecuritiesBeginning balance $ — $ — $ 1,524,143Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) — — (9,058,215)Acquisitions — — 4,007,684Dispositions — — (47,847)Reclassifications within Level 3 * — — 5,892,363
Ending balance $ — $ — $ 2,318,128
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation during the period on investmentsstill held at period end (included in net realized and unrealized gains/losses, above) $ — $ — $ (3,402,422)
______________* Comprised of four investments that were reclassified from Independent Third-Party Valuation
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — (continued)
At December 31, 2018, the Company’s investments were categorized as follows:
Level Basis for Determining Fair Value Bank Debt Other
Corporate Debt Equity
Securities1 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets $ — $ — $ 847,3982 Other direct and indirect observable market inputs * 38,403,794 28,998,633 —3
Independent third-party valuation sources that employ significant unobservableinputs
1,369,456,684
78,250,150
79,804,988
3 Advisor valuations with significant unobservable inputs — — 1,524,143
Total $ 1,407,860,478 $ 107,248,783 $ 82,176,529______________* For example, quoted prices in inactive markets or quotes for comparable investments
Unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of Level 3 investments as of December 31, 2018 included the following:
Asset Type Fair Value Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range (Weighted Avg.) †
Bank Debt 1,134,622,267 Income approach Discount rate 7.5% - 42.2% (12.3%) 193,682,097 Market quotations Indicative bid/ask quotes 1 - 2 (1) 14,793,577 Market comparable companies Revenue multiples 2.9x (2.9x) 26,358,743 Market comparable companies EBITDA multiples 0.8x - 11.0x (8.7x)Other Corporate Debt 40,632,991 Income approach Discount rate 14.6% - 17.8% (14.9%)
27,839,419 Market comparable companies Book value multiples 1.2x (1.2x) 9,777,740 Market comparable companies EBITDA multiples 10.0x (10.0x)Equity 6,410,413 Income approach Discount rate 4.7% - 13.0% (5.6%) 2,343,653 Market quotations Indicative bid/ask quotes 1 (1) 8,682,278 Option Pricing Model EBITDA/Revenue multiples 2.0x - 11.0x (5.5x) Implied volatility 30.0% - 200.0% (44.7%) Yield 0.0% (0.0%) Term 0.4 years - 3.5 years (1.8 years) 5,123,517 Market comparable companies Revenue multiples 0.4x - 2.9x (2.0x) 15,938,987 Market comparable companies EBITDA multiples 0.8x - 11.0x (8.5x) 18,931,733 Market comparable companies Book value multiples 1.2x (1.2x) 23,898,550 Other * N/A N/A $ 1,529,035,965 ______________* Fair value was determined based on the most recently available net asset value of the issuer adjusted for identified changes in the valuations of the
underlying portfolio of the issuer through the measurement date.† Weighted by fair value
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — (continued)
Changes in investments categorized as Level 3 during the year ended December 31, 2018 were as follows:
Independent Third-Party Valuation
Bank Debt Other
Corporate Debt Equity
SecuritiesBeginning balance $ 1,239,746,177 $ 78,011,815 $ 66,977,237Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) (26,389,966) 3,234,238 (19,627,175)Acquisitions * 558,522,290 28,644,658 47,881,799Dispositions (443,234,322) (4,110,009) (15,426,873)Transfers into Level 3 † 77,674,578 — —Transfers out of Level 3 † (36,862,073) (27,530,552) —
Ending balance $ 1,369,456,684 $ 78,250,150 $ 79,804,988
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation during the period on investmentsstill held at period end (included in net realized and unrealized gains/losses, above) $ (8,925,090) $ 1,142,452 $ (18,732,987)
______________* Includes payments received in kind and accretion of original issue and market discounts
† Comprised of seven investments that were transferred from Level 2 due to reduced trading volumes
‡ Comprised of five investments that were transferred to Level 2 due to increased observable market activity
Advisor Valuation
Bank Debt Other
Corporate Debt Equity
SecuritiesBeginning balance $ 116,662 $ — $ 1,730,941Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) (623) — (9,890)Acquisitions * 623 — —Dispositions (116,662) — (196,908)
Ending balance $ — $ — $ 1,524,143
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation during the period on investmentsstill held at period end (included in net realized and unrealized gains/losses, above) $ — $ — $ (206,798)
______________* Includes payments received in kind and accretion of original issue and market discounts
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — (continued)
Investment Transactions
Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date, except for private transactions that have conditions to closing, which are recorded on the closing date. Thecost of investments purchased is based upon the purchase price plus those professional fees which are specifically identifiable to the investment transaction.Realized gains and losses on investments are recorded based on the specific identification method, which typically allocates the highest cost inventory to the basisof investments sold.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash consists of amounts held in accounts with brokerage firms and the custodian bank. Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with an originalmaturity of generally three months or less. Cash equivalents are carried at amortized cost which approximates fair value. Cash equivalents are classified as Level 1in the GAAP valuation hierarchy. There was no restricted cash at December 31, 2019 or December 31, 2018.
Restricted Investments
The Company may invest without limitation in instruments that are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale. These instruments generally may be resoldto institutional investors in transactions exempt from registration or to the public if the securities are registered. Disposal of these investments may involve time-consuming negotiations and additional expense, and prompt sale at an acceptable price may be difficult. Information regarding restricted investments is included atthe end of the Consolidated Schedule of Investments. Restricted investments, including any restricted investments in affiliates, are valued in accordance with theinvestment valuation policies discussed above.
Foreign Investments
The Company may invest in instruments traded in foreign countries and denominated in foreign currencies. Foreign currency denominated investments comprisedapproximately 0.5% and 0.1% of total investments at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively. Such positions were converted at the respectiveclosing foreign exchange rates in effect at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 and reported in U.S. dollars. Purchases and sales of investments and incomeand expense items denominated in foreign currencies, when they occur, are translated into U.S. dollars based on the foreign exchange rates in effect on therespective dates of such transactions. The portion of gains and losses on foreign investments resulting from fluctuations in foreign currencies is included in netrealized and unrealized gain or loss from investments.
Investments in foreign companies and securities of foreign governments may involve special risks and considerations not typically associated with investing inU.S. companies and securities of the U.S. government. These risks include, among other things, revaluation of currencies, less reliable information about issuers,different transaction clearance and settlement practices, and potential future adverse political and economic developments. Moreover, investments in foreigncompanies and securities of foreign governments and their markets may be less liquid and their prices more volatile than those of comparable U.S. companies andthe U.S. government.
Derivatives
In order to mitigate certain currency exchange and interest rate risks, the Company may enter into certain derivative transactions. All derivatives are subject to amaster netting agreement and are reported at their gross amounts as either assets or liabilities in the Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Transactionsentered into are accounted for using the mark-to-market method with the resulting change in fair value recognized in earnings for the current period. Risks mayarise upon entering into these contracts from the potential inability of counterparties to meet the
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — (continued)
terms of their contracts and from unanticipated movements in interest rates and the value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar. Certain derivatives mayalso require the Company to pledge assets as collateral to secure its obligations.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company did not enter into any derivative transactions nor hold any derivative positions.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company exited a cross currency basis swap with a notional amount of $7.2 million. Gains and losses fromderivatives during the year ended December 31, 2018 were included in net realized and unrealized loss on investments in the Consolidated Statements ofOperations as follows:
Instrument
RealizedGains
(Losses)
UnrealizedGains
(Losses)Cross currency basis swap $ (726,950) $ 603,745
Valuations of derivatives are determined using observable market inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and, accordingly, areclassified as Level 2 in the GAAP valuation hierarchy.
Deferred Debt Issuance Costs
Certain costs incurred in connection with the issuance and/or extension of debt of the Company and its subsidiaries were capitalized and are being amortized on astraight-line basis over the estimated life of the respective instruments. The impact of utilizing the straight-line amortization method versus the effective-interestmethod is not material to the operations of the Company.
Revenue Recognition
Interest and dividend income, including income paid in kind, is recorded on an accrual basis, when such amounts are considered collectible. Origination,structuring, closing, commitment and other upfront fees, including original issue discounts, earned with respect to capital commitments are generally amortized oraccreted into interest income over the life of the respective debt investment, as are end-of-term or exit fees receivable upon repayment of a debt investment. Otherfees, including certain amendment fees, prepayment fees and commitment fees on broken deals, are recognized as earned. Prepayment fees and similar income dueupon the early repayment of a loan or debt security are recognized when earned and are included in interest income.
Certain debt investments are purchased at a discount to par as a result of the underlying credit risks and financial results of the issuer, as well as general marketfactors that influence the financial markets as a whole. Discounts on the acquisition of corporate bonds are generally amortized using the effective-interest orconstant-yield method assuming there are no questions as to collectability. When principal payments on a loan are received in an amount in excess of the loan’samortized cost, the excess principal payments are recorded as interest income.
Income Taxes
The Company intends to comply with the applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, pertaining to regulated investment companiesand to make distributions of taxable income sufficient to relieve it from substantially all federal income taxes. Accordingly, no provision for income taxes isrequired in the consolidated financial statements. The income or loss of the Operating Company, TCPC Funding and the SBIC is reported in the respectivemembers' or partners’ income tax returns, as applicable. In accordance with ASC Topic 740 - Income Taxes, the Company recognizes in its consolidated financialstatements the effect of a tax position when it is determined that such position
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BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — (continued)
is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, to be sustained upon examination. The tax returns of the Company, the Operating Company, TCPC Fundingand the SBIC remain open for examination by tax authorities for a period of three years from the date they are filed. No such examinations are currently pending.
US GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be adjusted to reflect permanent differences between financial and tax reporting. These reclassificationshave no effect on net assets or net asset values per share. As of December 31, 2019 the following permanent differences, attributable to timing and recognition ofpartnership income, were reclassified to the following accounts:
December 31, 2019Paid-in capital $ (2,579,604)Accumulated earnings 2,579,604
The tax character of distributions paid was as follows:
December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018Ordinary income $ 82,136,286 $ 84,693,499Tax return of capital 2,486,618 — 84,622,904 84,693,499
The tax-basis components of distributable earnings (accumulated deficit) applicable to the common shareholders of the Company at December 31, 2019 andDecember 31, 2018 were as follows:
December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018Undistributed ordinary income $ — $ 1,496,914Non-expiring capital loss carryforwards (177,144,745) (127,718,766)Net unrealized gains (losses) * (43,974,997) (43,435,379)
Total accumulated earnings (losses) $ (221,119,742) $ (169,657,231)
* The difference between book-basis and tax-basis net unrealized gains (losses) was attributable primarily to the timing and recognition of gains and losses oncertain investment transactions and will reverse in subsequent periods.
The Company’s capital loss carryforwards at December 31, 2019 may be used to offset capital gains in succeeding taxable years and will carry forward indefinitelyuntil used.
As of December 31, 2019, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation for investments and derivatives based on cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes wereas follows:
December 31, 2019Tax basis of investments $ 1,692,429,288
Unrealized appreciation $ 54,380,159Unrealized depreciation (97,302,552)
Net unrealized depreciation $ (42,922,393)
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — (continued)
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
On March 30, 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-08, Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities, which amends the amortization period forcertain callable debt securities purchased at a premium, shortening the period to the earliest call date. ASU 2017-08 is effective for fiscal years beginningafter December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of this pronouncement did not have a material impact on the Company’sconsolidated financial statements.
In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework- Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for FairValue Measurement. The updated guidance modifies the disclosure requirements on fair value measurements by (1) removing certain disclosure requirementsincluding policies related to valuation processes and the timing of transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy, (2) amending disclosure requirements relatedto measurement uncertainty from the use of significant unobservable inputs, and (3) adding certain new disclosure requirements including changes in unrealizedgains and losses for the period included in other comprehensive income (loss) for recurring Level 3 fair value measurements held at the end of the reporting periodand the range and weighted average used to develop significant unobservable inputs for Level 3 fair value measurements. ASU No. 2018-13 is effective for fiscalyears beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods therein, with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted this pronouncement in the fourthquarter of 2018. The adoption of this pronouncement did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
On August 17, 2018, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission issued a final rule under SEC Release No. 33-10532, Disclosure Update and Simplification,that reduces or eliminates certain disclosure requirements under Regulation S-X, and expands others. Expanded disclosures include new requirements to disclosefor interim periods (1) changes in stockholder’s equity and (2) the amount of dividend per share for each class of shares. The Company adopted the final rule as ofDecember 31, 2018. The adoption of this rule did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
3. Management Fees, Incentive Compensation and Other Expenses
On February 8, 2019, the stockholders of the Company approved an amended investment management agreement to be effective on February 9, 2019 between theCompany and the Advisor which (i) reduced the management fee on total assets (excluding cash and cash equivalents) that exceed an amount equal to 200% of thenet asset value of the Company from 1.5% to 1.0%, (ii) reduced the incentive compensation on net investment income and net realized gains (reduced by any netunrealized losses) from 20% to 17.5% and (iii) reduced the cumulative total return hurdle from 8% to 7%.
Accordingly, the Company’s management fee is calculated at an annual rate of 1.5% on total assets (excluding cash and cash equivalents) up to an amount equal to200% of the net asset value of the Company, and 1.0% thereafter. The management fee is calculated on a consolidated basis as of the beginning of each quarter andis payable to the Advisor quarterly in arrears.
Incentive compensation is only incurred to the extent the Company’s cumulative total return (after incentive compensation) exceeds a 7% annual rate on dailyweighted-average contributed common equity. Subject to that limitation, incentive compensation is calculated on ordinary income (before incentive compensation)and net realized gains (net of any unrealized depreciation) at rates of 17.5% on income since the fee reduction on February 8, 2019 and 20% previously. Incentivecompensation is computed as the difference between incentive compensation earned and incentive compensation paid, subject to the total return hurdle, on acumulative basis since January 1, 2013, and is payable quarterly in arrears.
A reserve for incentive compensation is accrued based on the amount of any additional incentive compensation that would have been payable to the Advisorassuming a hypothetical liquidation of the Company at net asset value on the balance sheet date. As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, no suchreserve was accrued.
Through December 31, 2017, the incentive compensation was an equity allocation to SVCP’s general partner under its limited partnership agreement (the “LPA”).On January 29, 2018, SVCP amended and restated its limited partnership agreement, effective as of January 1, 2018, to convert the existing incentivecompensation structure from a profitallocation and distribution to SVCP’s general partner to a fee payable to the Advisor pursuant to the then-existing investment management agreements. Theamendment had no impact on the amount of the incentive compensation paid or services received by the Company.
The Company bears all expenses incurred in connection with its business, including fees and expenses of outside contracted services, such as custodian,administrative, legal, audit and tax preparation fees, costs of valuing investments, insurance costs, brokers’ and finders’ fees relating to investments, and any othertransaction costs associated with the purchase and sale of investments.
4. Leverage
Leverage is comprised of convertible senior unsecured notes due March 2022 issued by the Company (the “2022 Convertible Notes”), unsecured notes due August2022 issued by the Company (the “2022 Notes”), unsecured notes due August 2024 issued by the Company (the “2024 Notes”), amounts outstanding under asenior secured revolving, multi-currency credit facility issued by SVCP (the “SVCP Facility”), amounts outstanding under a senior secured revolving credit facilityissued by TCPC Funding (the “TCPC Funding Facility”) and debentures guaranteed by the SBA (the “SBA Debentures”). Prior to being replaced by the SVCPFacility on February 26, 2018, leverage included $116.0 million in available debt under a senior secured revolving credit facility issued by SVCP (the “SVCP 2018
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
4. Leverage — (continued)
Facility”). Prior to its maturity on December 15, 2019, leverage also included convertible senior unsecured notes due December 2019 issued by the Company (the“2019 Convertible Notes”).
Total leverage outstanding and available at December 31, 2019 was as follows:
Maturity Rate Carrying Value* Available Total
Capacity
SVCP Facility 2023 L+2.00% † $ 108,497,620 $ 161,502,380 $ 270,000,000
TCPC Funding Facility 2023 L+2.00% ‡ 158,000,000 142,000,000 300,000,000
SBA Debentures 2024−2029 2.63% § 138,000,000 12,000,000 150,000,000
2022 Convertible Notes ($140 million par) 2022 4.625% 138,584,313 — 138,584,313
2022 Notes ($175 million par) 2022 4.125% 174,649,566 — 174,649,566
2024 Notes ($200 million par) 2024 3.900% 197,782,572 — 197,782,572
Total leverage 915,514,071 $ 315,502,380 $ 1,231,016,451
Unamortized issuance costs (7,711,684) Debt, net of unamortized issuance costs $ 907,802,387 ______________* Except for the convertible notes, the 2022 Notes and the 2024 Notes, all carrying values are the same as the principal amounts outstanding.† As of December 31, 2019, $8.3 million of the outstanding amount bore interest at a rate of EURIBOR + 2.00%‡ Subject to certain funding requirements§ Weighted-average interest rate, excluding fees of 0.36% or 0.35%
Total leverage outstanding and available at December 31, 2018 was as follows:
Maturity Rate Carrying Value* Available Total
Capacity
SVCP Facility 2022 L+2.25% † $ 82,000,000 $ 88,000,000 $ 170,000,000
TCPC Funding Facility 2022 L+2.00% ‡ 212,000,000 88,000,000 300,000,000
SBA Debentures 2024−2028 2.77% § 98,000,000 52,000,000 150,000,000
2019 Convertible Notes ($108 million par) 2019 5.25% 107,501,207 — 107,501,207
2022 Convertible Notes ($140 million par) 2022 4.625% 137,980,185 — 137,980,185
2022 Notes ($175 million par) 2022 4.125% 174,525,996 — 174,525,996
Total leverage 812,007,388 $ 228,000,000 $ 1,040,007,388
Unamortized issuance costs (6,805,196) Debt, net of unamortized issuance costs $ 805,202,192 ______________* Except for the convertible notes and 2022 Notes, all carrying values are the same as the principal amounts outstanding.† As of December 31, 2018, $3.0 million of the outstanding amount were short-term borrowings bearing interest at a rate of Prime plus 2.25%.‡ Subject to certain funding requirements§ Weighted-average interest rate, excluding fees of 0.36% or 0.35%
The combined weighted-average interest rates on total leverage outstanding at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 were 3.84% and 4.34%, respectively.
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
4. Leverage — (continued)
Total expenses related to debt included the following:
Year Ended December 31, 2019 2018 2017Interest expense $ 41,660,478 $ 35,613,605 $ 27,870,015Amortization of deferred debt issuance costs 3,640,812 3,856,735 * 3,646,299Commitment fees 1,097,505 998,421 1,574,829
Total $ 46,398,795 $ 40,468,761 $ 33,091,143______________*Includes approximately $0.3 million of amortized debt costs related to the early termination of the SVCP 2018 Facility.
Outstanding leverage is carried at amortized cost in the Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. As of December 31, 2019, the estimated fair values ofthe SVCP Facility, the TCPC Funding Facility and the SBA Debentures approximated their carrying values, and the 2022 Convertible Notes, the 2022 Notes andthe 2024 Notes had estimated fair values of $144.0 million, $181.6 million and $205.0 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2018, the estimated fair values ofthe SVCP 2018 Facility, the TCPC Funding Facility and the SBA Debentures approximated their carrying values, and the 2019 Convertible Notes, the 2022Convertible Notes and the 2022 Notes had estimated fair values of $108.6 million, $137.5 million and $169.5 million, respectively. The estimated fair values of theSVCP Facility, the SVCP 2018 Facility, the TCPC Funding Facility and the SBA Debentures were determined by discounting projected remaining payments usingmarket interest rates for borrowings of the Company and entities with similar credit risks at the measurement date. The estimated fair values of the convertiblenotes, 2022 Notes and 2024 Notes were determined using market quotations. The estimated fair values of the SVCP Facility, the SVCP 2018 Facility, the TCPCFunding Facility, the convertible notes, the 2022 Notes, the 2024 Notes and the SBA Debentures as prepared for disclosure purposes were deemed to be Level 3 inthe GAAP valuation hierarchy.
Convertible Unsecured Notes
On June 11, 2014, the Company issued $108.0 million of convertible senior unsecured notes that matured on December 15, 2019. The 2019 Convertible Noteswere general unsecured obligations of the Company, and ranked structurally junior to the SVCP Facility, TCPC Funding Facility and the SBA Debentures. TheCompany did not have the right to redeem the 2019 Convertible Notes prior to maturity. The 2019 Convertible Notes bore interest at an annual rate of 5.25%, paidsemi-annually. In certain circumstances, the 2019 Convertible Notes could have been converted into cash, shares of the Company’s common stock or acombination of cash and shares of common stock (such combination to be at the Company’s election), at an initial conversion rate of 50.9100 shares of commonstock per one thousand dollar principal amount, which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $19.64 per share of common stock, subject tocustomary anti-dilutional adjustments. The initial conversion price was approximately 12.5% above the $17.46 per share closing price of the Company’s commonstock on June 11, 2014. Prior to its maturity on December 15, 2019, the principal amount of the 2019 Convertible Notes exceeded the value of the conversion ratemultiplied by the per share closing price of the Company’s common stock. Therefore, no additional shares were added to the calculation of diluted earnings percommon share and weighted average common shares outstanding.
Prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding June 15, 2019, holders were permitted to convert their 2019 Convertible Notes only undercertain circumstances set forth in the indenture governing the terms of the 2019 Convertible Notes. On or after June 15, 2019 until the close of business on thescheduled trading day immediately preceding December 15, 2019, holders may have converted their 2019 Convertible Notes at any time. Upon conversion, theCompany would pay or deliver, as the case may be, at its election, cash, shares of the Company’s common stock or a combination of cash and shares of theCompany’s common stock, subject to the requirements of the indenture. No notes were converted prior to the notes maturing on December 15, 2019.
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
4. Leverage — (continued)
On August 30, 2016, the Company issued $140.0 million of convertible senior unsecured notes that mature on March 1, 2022, unless previously converted orrepurchased in accordance with their terms. The 2022 Convertible Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company, and rank structurally junior to theSVCP Facility and the TCPC Funding Facility. The Company does not have the right to redeem the 2022 Convertible Notes prior to maturity. The 2022Convertible Notes bear interest at an annual rate of 4.625%, payable semi-annually. In certain circumstances, the 2022 Convertible Notes will be convertible intocash, shares of the Company’s common stock or a combination of cash and shares of common stock (such combination to be at the Company’s election), at aninitial conversion rate of 54.5019 shares of common stock per one thousand dollar principal amount of the 2022 Convertible Notes, which is equivalent to an initialconversion price of approximately $18.35 per share of common stock, subject to customary anti-dilutional adjustments. The initial conversion price wasapproximately 10.0% above the $16.68 per share closing price of the Company’s common stock on August 30, 2016. At December 31, 2019, the principal amountof the 2022 Convertible Notes exceeded the value of the conversion rate multiplied by the per share closing price of the Company’s common stock. Therefore, noadditional shares have been added to the calculation of diluted earnings per common share and weighted average common shares outstanding.
Prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding September 1, 2021, holders may convert their 2022 Convertible Notes only under certaincircumstances set forth in the indenture governing the terms of the 2022 Convertible Notes. On or after September 1, 2021 until the close of business on thescheduled trading day immediately preceding March 1, 2022, holders may convert their 2022 Convertible Notes at any time. Upon conversion, the Company willpay or deliver, as the case may be, at its election, cash, shares of the Company’s common stock or a combination of cash and shares of the Company’s commonstock, subject to the requirements of the indenture.
The 2019 Convertible Notes and 2022 Convertible Notes were accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 470-20 – Debt with Conversion and Other Options.Upon conversion of any of the 2022 Convertible Notes, the Company intends to pay the outstanding principal amount in cash and, to the extent that the conversionvalue exceeds the principal amount, has the option to pay the excess amount in cash or shares of the Company’s common stock (or a combination of cash andshares), subject to the requirements of the respective indenture. The Company has determined that the embedded conversion options in the 2019 Convertible Notesand 2022 Convertible Notes were not required to be separately accounted for as derivatives under GAAP. At the time of issuance the estimated values of the debtand equity components of the 2019 Convertible Notes were approximately 97.7% and 2.3%, respectively. At the time of issuance the estimated values of the debtand equity components of the 2022 Convertible Notes were approximately 97.6% and 2.4%, respectively.
The original issue discounts equal to the equity components of the 2019 Convertible Notes and 2022 Convertible Notes were recorded in “paid-in capital in excessof par” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. As a result, the Company records interest expense comprised of both stated interestand amortization of the original issue discounts. At the time of issuance, the equity components of the 2019 Convertible Notes and the 2022 Convertible Noteswere $2.5 million and $3.3 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, the components of the carrying values of the 2019 ConvertibleNotes and 2022 Convertible Notes were as follows:
December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
2019 Convertible
Notes 2022 Convertible
Notes 2019 Convertible
Notes 2022 Convertible
NotesPrincipal amount of debt N/A $ 140,000,000 $ 108,000,000 $ 140,000,000Original issue discount, net of accretion N/A (1,415,687) (498,793) (2,019,815)
Carrying value of debt N/A $ 138,584,313 $ 107,501,207 $ 137,980,185
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
4. Leverage — (continued)
For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the components of interest expense for the convertible notes were as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2019 2018 2017
2019Convertible
Notes
2022Convertible
Notes
2019Convertible
Notes
2022Convertible
Notes
2019 Convertible
Notes
2022 Convertible
NotesStated interest expense $ 5,433,750 $ 6,475,000 $ 5,670,000 $ 6,475,000 $ 5,670,000 $ 6,492,986Amortization of original issuediscount 497,813 604,127 490,145 574,316 463,132 547,511
Total interest expense $ 5,931,563 $ 7,079,127 $ 6,160,145 $ 7,049,316 $ 6,133,132 $ 7,040,497 The estimated effective interest rate of the debt component of the 2019 Convertible Notes, equal to the stated interest of 5.25% plus the accretion of the originalissue discount, was approximately 5.75% for the years ended December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018. The estimated effective interest rate of the debtcomponent of the 2022 Convertible Notes, equal to the stated interest of 4.625% plus the accretion of the original issue discount, was approximately 5.125% forthe years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.
Unsecured Notes
On August 4, 2017, the Company issued $125.0 million of unsecured notes that mature on August 11, 2022, unless previously repurchased or redeemed inaccordance with their terms. On November 3, 2017, the Company issued an additional $50.0 million of the 2022 Notes. The 2022 Notes bear interest at an annualrate of 4.125%, payable semi-annually, and all principal is due upon maturity. The 2022 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company and rankstructurally junior to the SVCP Facility, TCPC Funding Facility and the SBA Debentures, and rank pari passu with the 2022 Convertible Notes and the 2024Notes. The 2022 Notes may be redeemed in whole or part at the Company's option at a redemption price equal to par plus a "make whole" premium, as determinedpursuant to the indenture governing the 2022 Notes, and any accrued and unpaid interest. The 2022 Notes were issued at a discount to the principal amount.
On August 23, 2019, the Company issued $150.0 million of unsecured notes that mature on August 23, 2024, unless previously repurchased or redeemed inaccordance with their terms. On November 26, 2019, the Company issued an additional $50.0 million of the 2024 Notes. The 2024 Notes bear interest at an annualrate of 3.900%, payable semi-annually, and all principal is due upon maturity. The 2024 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company and rankstructurally junior to the SVCP Facility, TCPC Funding Facility and the SBA Debentures, and rank pari passu with the 2022 Convertible Notes and the 2022Notes. The 2024 Notes may be redeemed in whole or part at the Company's option at a redemption price equal to par plus a "make whole" premium, as determinedpursuant to the indenture governing the 2024 Notes, and any accrued and unpaid interest. The 2024 Notes were issued at a discount to the principal amount.
As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, the components of the carrying value of the 2022 Notes and 2024 Notes were as follows:
December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 2022 Notes 2024 Notes 2022 Notes 2024 NotesPrincipal amount of debt $ 175,000,000 $ 200,000,000 $ 175,000,000 N/AOriginal issue discount, net of accretion (350,434) (2,217,428) (474,004) N/A
Carrying value of debt $ 174,649,566 $ 197,782,572 $ 174,525,996 N/A
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
4. Leverage — (continued)
For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the components of interest expense for the 2022 Notes and 2024 Notes were as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2019 2018 2017 2022 Notes 2024 Notes 2022 Notes 2024 Notes 2022 Notes 2024 NotesStated interest expense $ 7,218,750 $ 2,269,583 $ 7,218,750 N/A $ 2,337,500 N/AAmortization of original issuediscount 123,569 129,572 118,574 N/A 34,172 N/A
Total interest expense $ 7,342,319 $ 2,399,155 $ 7,337,324 N/A $ 2,371,672 N/A
SVCP Facility
The SVCP Facility consists of a revolving, multi-currency credit facility which provides for amounts to be drawn up to $270.0 million, subject to certain collateraland other restrictions. The facility was amended on May 6, 2019 and subsequently on August 6, 2019 to (1) increase its capacity to $270.0 million, (2) reduce theinterest rate by 0.25% to LIBOR plus 2.00%, and (3) extend the maturity date from February 28, 2022 to May 6, 2023, subject to extension by the lenders at therequest of SVCP. The facility contains an accordion feature pursuant to which the credit line may increase up to an aggregate of $300.0 million, subject to consentfrom the applicable lenders and other customary conditions. Most of the cash and investments held directly by SVCP, as well as the net assets of TCPC Fundingand the SBIC, are included in the collateral for the facility.
Borrowings under the SVCP Facility generally bear interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.00%. In addition to amounts due on outstanding debt, the SVCP Facilityaccrues commitment fees of 0.50% per annum on the unused portion of the facility, or 2.25% per annum on the unused portion that is greater than 60% of the totalfacility. The SVCP Facility may be terminated, and any outstanding amounts thereunder may become due and payable, should SVCP fail to satisfy certain financialor other covenants. As of December 31, 2019, SVCP was in full compliance with such covenants.
SVCP 2018 Facility
Prior to being replaced by the SVCP Facility on February 26, 2018, the SVCP 2018 Facility consisted of a senior secured revolving credit facility which providedfor amounts to be drawn up to $116.0 million, subject to certain collateral and other restrictions. The SVCP 2018 Facility was originally set to mature on July 31,2018. Advances under the SVCP 2018 Facility bore interest at an annual rate of 2.50% plus either LIBOR or the lender’s cost of funds (subject to a cap of LIBORplus 20 basis points). In addition to amounts due on outstanding debt, the SVCP 2018 Facility accrued commitment fees of 0.20% per annum on the unused portionof the facility, or 0.25% per annum when less than $46.4 million in borrowings were outstanding.
SBA Debentures
As of December 31, 2019, the SBIC is able to issue up to $150.0 million in SBA Debentures, subject to funded regulatory capital and other customary regulatoryrequirements. As of December 31, 2019, SVCP had committed $75.0 million of regulatory capital to the SBIC, all of which had been funded. SBA Debentures arenon-recourse and may be prepaid at any time without penalty. Once drawn, the SBIC debentures bear an interim interest rate of LIBOR plus 30 basis points. Therate then becomes fixed at the time of SBA pooling, which occurs twice each year, and is set to the then-current 10-year treasury rate plus a spread and an annualSBA charge.
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
4. Leverage — (continued)
SBA Debentures outstanding as of December 31, 2019 were as follows:
Issuance Date Maturity Debenture
Amount Fixed
Interest Rate SBA
Annual ChargeSeptember 24, 2014 September 1, 2024 $ 18,500,000 3.02% 0.36%March 25, 2015 March 1, 2025 9,500,000 2.52% 0.36%September 23, 2015 September 1, 2025 10,800,000 2.83% 0.36%March 23, 2016 March 1, 2026 4,000,000 2.51% 0.36%September 21, 2016 September 1, 2026 18,200,000 2.05% 0.36%September 20, 2017 September 1, 2027 14,000,000 2.52% 0.36%March 21, 2018 March 1, 2028 8,000,000 3.19% 0.35%September 19, 2018 September 1, 2028 15,000,000 3.55% 0.35%September 25, 2019 September 1, 2029 40,000,000 2.28% 0.35%
$ 138,000,000 2.63% * _____________* Weighted-average interest rate
SBA Debentures outstanding as of December 31, 2018 were as follows:
Issuance Date Maturity Debenture
Amount Fixed
Interest Rate SBA
Annual ChargeSeptember 24, 2014 September 1, 2024 $ 18,500,000 3.02% 0.36%March 25, 2015 March 1, 2025 9,500,000 2.52% 0.36%September 23, 2015 September 1, 2025 10,800,000 2.83% 0.36%March 23, 2016 March 1, 2026 4,000,000 2.51% 0.36%September 21, 2016 September 1, 2026 18,200,000 2.05% 0.36%September 20, 2017 September 1, 2027 14,000,000 2.52% 0.36%October 20, 2017 March 1, 2028 8,000,000 3.19% 0.35%September 19, 2018 September 1, 2028 15,000,000 3.55% 0.35%
$ 98,000,000 2.77% * _____________* Weighted-average interest rate
TCPC Funding Facility
The TCPC Funding Facility is a senior secured revolving credit facility which provides for amounts to be drawn up to $300.0 million, subject to certain collateraland other restrictions. On May 7, 2019, the facility was amended to expand the total capacity by $50.0 million to $350.0 million. On June 3, 2019, the facility wasamended to extend the maturity date to May 31, 2023. On November 4, 2019, the facility was amended to reduce the credit facility capacity by $50.0 million to$300.0 million. The facility contains an accordion feature which allows for expansion of the facility to up to $400.0 million subject to consent from the lender andother customary conditions. The cash and investments of TCPC Funding are included in the collateral for the facility.
Borrowings under the TCPC Funding Facility bear interest at a rate of LIBOR plus either 2.00% or 2.35% per annum, subject to certain funding requirements, plusan administrative fee of 0.25% per annum. In addition to amounts due on outstanding debt, the facility accrues commitment fees of 0.25% per annum on theunused portion of the facility, or
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
4. Leverage — (continued)
0.50% per annum when the unused portion is greater than 33% of the total facility, plus an administrative fee of 0.25% per annum. The facility may be terminated,and any outstanding amounts thereunder may become due and payable, should TCPC Funding fail to satisfy certain financial or other covenants. As ofDecember 31, 2019, TCPC Funding was in full compliance with such covenants. 5. Commitments, Contingencies, Concentration of Credit Risk and Off-Balance Sheet Risk
SVCP, TCPC Funding and the SBIC conduct business with brokers and dealers that are primarily headquartered in New York and Los Angeles and are members ofthe major securities exchanges. Banking activities are conducted with a firm headquartered in the San Francisco area.
In the normal course of business, investment activities involve executions, settlement and financing of various transactions resulting in receivables from, andpayables to, brokers, dealers and the custodian. These activities may expose the Company to risk in the event that such parties are unable to fulfill contractualobligations. Management does not anticipate any material losses from counterparties with whom it conducts business. Consistent with standard business practice,the Company, SVCP, TCPC Funding and the SBIC enter into contracts that contain a variety of indemnifications, and are engaged from time to time in variouslegal actions. The maximum exposure under these arrangements and activities is unknown. However, management expects the risk of material loss to be remote.
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
5. Commitments, Contingencies, Concentration of Credit Risk and Off-Balance Sheet Risk — (continued)
The Consolidated Schedules of Investments include certain revolving loan facilities and other commitments with unfunded balances at December 31, 2019 andDecember 31, 2018 as follows:
Unfunded Balances
Issuer Maturity December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
2-10 Holdco, Inc. 10/31/2024 $ 416,667 $ 416,667
Acquia Inc. 11/1/2025 1,803,792 N/A
Applause App Quality, Inc. 9/20/2022 1,509,820 1,509,820
Apptio, Inc. 1/10/2025 769,231 N/A
Auto Trakk SPV, LLC 12/21/2021 3,193,208 4,732,558
Bisnow, LLC 9/21/2022 1,200,000 1,200,000
Blue Star Sports Holdings, Inc. 6/15/2024 55,556 877,777
CAREATC, Inc. 3/14/2024 607,288 N/A
Certify, Inc. 2/28/2024 2,497,761 N/A
Datto, Inc. 12/7/2022 N/A 1,870,622
Donuts Inc. 9/17/2023 660,634 660,634
Dude Solutions Holdings, Inc. 6/14/2025 2,207,896 N/A
Edmentum, Inc. 6/9/2020 205,642 4,103,102
HighTower Holding, LLC 1/31/2026 N/A 6,169,355
Home Partners of America, Inc. 10/13/2022 2,142,857 2,142,857
IAS Investco, Inc. 1/24/2021 N/A 1,114,286
iCIMS, Inc. 9/12/2024 490,735 490,735
JAMF Holdings, Inc. 11/13/2022 1,214,052 1,214,052
Kellermeyer Bergensons Services, LLC 11/7/2026 3,464,052 N/A
Khoros LLC (Lithium) 10/3/2022 1,983,364 1,983,364
Patient Point Network Solutions, LLC 6/26/2022 176,190 440,475
Pegasus Business Intelligence, LP (Onyx Centersource) 12/20/2021 671,356 671,356
Pulse Secure, LLC 5/1/2022 1,342,516 1,342,516
ResearchGate GmBH 10/1/2022 8,286,000 N/A
Rhode Holdings, Inc. (Kaseya) 5/3/2025 2,016,078 N/A
RSB-160, LLC (Lat20), LLC 7/20/2022 N/A 4,435,914
Sandata Technologies, LLC 7/23/2024 2,250,000 N/A
Snow Software AB 4/17/2024 2,616,329 N/A
Space Midco, Inc. (Archibus) 12/5/2023 277,778 277,778
Spark Networks, Inc. 7/1/2023 1,005,887 N/A
Team Software, Inc. 9/17/2023 2,282,287 3,511,210
Telarix, Inc. 11/19/2023 178,571 357,143
TPC Intermediate Holdings, LLC 5/15/2020 4,363,137 188,235
Tradeshift Holdings, Inc. 9/1/2020 N/A 5,352,908
Unanet, Inc. 5/31/2024 4,974,490 N/A
VSS-Southern Holdings, LLC 3/31/2022 1,027,397 N/A
Xactly Corporation 7/31/2022 1,405,501 1,405,501
Total Unfunded Balances $ 57,296,072 $ 46,468,865
119
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
6. Related Party Transactions
The Company, SVCP, TCPC Funding, the SBIC, the Advisor and their members and affiliates may be considered related parties. From time to time, SVCPadvances payments to third parties on behalf of the Company which are reimbursable through deductions from distributions to the Company. At December 31,2019 and December 31, 2018, no such amounts were outstanding. From time to time, the Advisor advances payments to third parties on behalf of the Company andSVCP and receives reimbursement from the Company. At December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, amounts reimbursable to the Advisor totaled $1.6 millionand $1.2 million, respectively, as reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Pursuant to an administration agreement between the Administrator and the Company (the “Administration Agreement”), the Administrator may be reimbursed forcosts and expenses incurred by the Administrator for office space rental, office equipment and utilities allocable to the Company, as well as costs and expensesincurred by the Administrator or its affiliates relating to any administrative, operating, or other non-investment advisory services provided by the Administrator orits affiliates to the Company. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, expenses allocated pursuant to the Administration Agreement totaled $2.3million, $2.4 million and $2.3 million, respectively.
7. Stockholders’ Equity and Dividends
The following table summarizes the total shares issued and proceeds received in connection with the Company’s dividend reinvestment plan for the years endedDecember 31, 2019 and 2018:
2019 2018Shares Issued 819 767Average Price Per Share $ 13.98 $ 13.94Proceeds $ 11,453 $ 10,693
The Company’s dividends are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The following table summarizes the Company’s dividends declared and paid for the year endedDecember 31, 2019:
Date Declared Record Date Payment Date Type Amount Per Share Total AmountFebruary 28, 2019 March 15, 2019 March 29, 2019 Regular $ 0.36 $ 21,155,619May 8, 2019 June 14, 2019 June 28, 2019 Regular 0.36 21,155,688August 8, 2019 September 16, 2019 September 30, 2019 Regular 0.36 21,155,760November 6, 2019 December 17, 2019 December 31, 2019 Regular 0.36 21,155,837
$ 1.44 $ 84,622,904
The following table summarizes the Company’s dividends declared and paid for the year ended December 31, 2018:
Date Declared Record Date Payment Date Type Amount Per Share Total AmountFebruary 27, 2018 March 16, 2018 March 30, 2018 Regular $ 0.36 $ 21,184,004May 9, 2018 June 15, 2018 June 29, 2018 Regular 0.36 21,174,966August 8, 2018 September 14, 2018 September 28, 2018 Regular 0.36 21,170,272November 8, 2018 December 17, 2018 December 31, 2018 Regular 0.36 21,164,257
$ 1.44 $ 84,693,499
120
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
7. Stockholders’ Equity and Dividends — (continued)
On February 24, 2015, the Company’s board of directors approved a stock repurchase plan (the “Company Repurchase Plan”) to acquire up to $50.0 million in theaggregate of the Company’s common stock at prices at certain thresholds below the Company’s net asset value per share, in accordance with the guidelinesspecified in Rule 10b-18 and Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company Repurchase Plan is designed to allow the Company to repurchaseits common stock at times when it otherwise might be prevented from doing so under insider trading laws. The Company Repurchase Plan requires an agentselected by the Company to repurchase shares of common stock on the Company’s behalf if and when the market price per share is at certain thresholds below themost recently reported net asset value per share. Under the plan, the agent will increase the volume of purchases made if the price of the Company’s common stockdeclines, subject to volume restrictions. The timing and amount of any stock repurchased depends on the terms and conditions of the Company Repurchase Plan,the market price of the common stock and trading volumes, and no assurance can be given that any particular amount of common stock will be repurchased. TheCompany Repurchase Plan was re-approved on October 31, 2019, to be in effect through the earlier of two trading days after the Company’s fourth quarter 2019earnings release unless further extended or terminated by the Company’s board of directors, or such time as the approved $50.0 million repurchase amount hasbeen fully utilized, subject to certain conditions.
The following table summarizes the total shares repurchased and amounts paid by the Company under the Company Repurchase Plan, including broker fees, forthe year ended December 31, 2019:
Shares Repurchased Price Per Share Total CostCompany Repurchase Plan 9,000 $ 13.96 * $ 125,679______________* Weighted-average price per share
The following table summarizes the total shares repurchased and amounts paid by the Company under the Company Repurchase Plan, including broker fees, forthe year ended December 31, 2018:
Shares Repurchased Price Per Share Total CostCompany Repurchase Plan 73,416 $ 14.25 * $ 1,046,475______________* Weighted-average price per share
8. Earnings Per Share
In accordance with ASC 260, Earnings per Share, basic earnings per share is computed by dividing earnings available to common shareholders by the weightedaverage number of shares outstanding during the period. Other potentially dilutive common shares, if any, and the related impact to earnings, are considered whencalculating earnings per share on a diluted basis. The following information sets forth the computation of the net increase in net assets per share resulting fromoperations for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017:
Year Ended December 31, 2019 2018 2017Net increase in net assets applicable to common shareholders resulting from operations $ 30,580,789 $ 45,475,882 67,931,014Weighted average shares outstanding 58,766,362 58,815,216 57,000,658Earnings per share $ 0.52 $ 0.77 $ 1.19
121
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
9. Subsequent Events
On February 20, 2020, the Company’s board of directors re-approved the Company Repurchase Plan, to be in effect through the earlier of two trading days afterthe Company’s first quarter 2020 earnings release or such time as the approved $50.0 million repurchase amount has been fully utilized, subject to certainconditions.
On February 26, 2020, the Company’s board of directors declared a first quarter regular dividend of $0.36 per share payable on March 31, 2020 to stockholders ofrecord as of the close of business on March 17, 2020.
122
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
10. Financial Highlights
The financial highlights below show the Company’s results of operations for each of the five years ended December 31, 2019, as applicable.
Year Ended December 31, 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015Per Common Share Per share NAV at beginning of year $ 14.13 $ 14.80 $ 14.91 $ 14.78 $ 15.01
Investment operations: Net investment income before income taxes 1.61 1.59 1.99 1.88 2.07Excise taxes — — — (0.01) (0.02)Net investment income 1.61 1.59 1.99 1.87 2.05
Net realized and unrealized losses (1.09) (0.82) (0.40) — (0.45)Dividends on Series A preferred equity facility — — — — (0.01)Incentive allocation reserve and distributions N/A * N/A * (0.40) (0.37) (0.41)Total from investment operations 0.52 0.77 1.19 1.50 1.18
Issuance of common stock — — 0.14 0.01 —Repurchase of common stock — — — — —Issuance of convertible debt — — — 0.06 —Repurchase of Series A preferred interests — — — — 0.03Distributions to common shareholders from: Net investment income (1.44) (1.44) (1.44) (1.44) (1.44)
Per share NAV at end of year $ 13.21 $ 14.13 $ 14.80 $ 14.91 $ 14.78
Per share market price at end of year $ 14.05 $ 13.04 $ 15.28 $ 16.90 $ 13.93
Total return based on market value 18.8% (5.2)% (1.1)% 31.7% (8.4)%Total return based on net asset value 3.7% 5.2 % 8.9 % 10.6% 8.1 %
Shares outstanding at end of year 58,766,426 58,774,607 58,847,256 53,041,900 48,834,734
* Effective January 1, 2018, incentive compensation was converted from a partnership profit allocation and distribution to a fee.
123
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
10. Financial Highlights — (continued)
Year Ended December 31,
2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Ratios to average common equity: (1) Net investment income (2) 11.6% 10.8% 10.6% 10.1% 10.9%
Expenses (3) 9.8% 8.5% 7.3% 6.9% 6.2%
Expenses and incentive compensation (4) 12.3% 11.2% 9.9% 9.4% 8.9%
Ending common shareholder equity $ 776,318,386 $ 830,474,727 $ 870,728,126 $ 790,935,991 $ 721,977,017
Portfolio turnover rate 35.9% 32.3% 45.9% 37.9% 37.8%
Weighted-average leverage outstanding (5) $ 902,977,493 $ 769,065,775 $ 623,666,655 $ 542,421,190 $ 513,312,510
Weighted-average interest rate on leverage (6) 4.6% 4.6% 4.5% 3.9% 3.2%
Weighted-average number of common shares 58,766,362 58,815,216 57,000,658 50,948,035 48,863,188
Average leverage per share (5) $ 15.37 $ 13.08 $ 10.94 $ 10.65 $ 10.51
Asset Coverage: As of December 31,
2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Debt Debt outstanding (7) $ 915,514,071 $ 812,007,389 $ 733,824,353 $ 579,906,288 $ 502,410,321
Asset coverage per $1,000 of debt outstanding $ 1,992 $ 2,157 $ 2,335 $ 2,344 $ 2,423______________(1) These ratios include interest expense but do not reflect the effect of dividends on the preferred equity facility.
(2) Net of incentive allocation and excise taxes.
(3) Includes interest and other debt costs but excludes excise taxes and incentive compensation.
(4) Includes incentive compensation and all Company expenses including interest and other debt costs.
(5) Includes both debt and preferred equity leverage.
(6) Includes dividends on the preferred equity leverage facility.
(7) Excludes unamortized debt issuance costs which are netted in the Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
124
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
December 31, 2019
11. Select Quarterly Data (Unaudited)
2019 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1Total investment income $ 47,810,412 $ 51,640,349 $ 48,174,625 $ 47,540,529Net investment income before taxes 22,410,163 25,314,195 23,813,637 23,320,098Excise taxes — — — —Net investment income 22,410,163 25,314,195 23,813,637 23,320,098Net realized and unrealized gain (23,565,362) (6,876,144) (34,637,520) 801,722
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations $ (1,155,199) $ 18,438,051 $ (10,823,883) $ 24,121,820
Basic and diluted earnings per common share $ (0.02) $ 0.31 $ (0.18) $ 0.41
2018 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1Total investment income $ 48,382,641 $ 49,480,586 $ 48,420,911 $ 44,215,046Net investment income before taxes 23,454,080 24,511,933 23,946,229 21,565,113Excise taxes 92,700 — — —Net investment income 23,361,380 24,511,933 23,946,229 21,565,113Net realized and unrealized gain (24,383,303) (9,320,557) (19,828,585) 5,623,672
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations $ (1,021,923) $ 15,191,376 $ 4,117,644 $ 27,188,785
Basic and diluted earnings per common share $ (0.02) $ 0.26 $ 0.07 $ 0.46
2017 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1Total investment income $ 47,106,925 $ 43,288,935 $ 46,230,626 $ 39,343,014Net investment income before taxes 29,952,065 27,567,731 31,036,316 24,881,888Excise taxes 36,380 — — —Net investment income 29,915,685 27,567,731 31,036,316 24,881,888Net realized and unrealized gain (10,282,570) (7,436,234) (4,601,519) (469,960)Incentive allocation reserve and distributions (5,983,135) (5,513,546) (6,207,264) (4,976,378)
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations $ 13,649,980 $ 14,617,951 $ 20,227,533 $ 19,435,550
Basic and diluted earnings per common share $ 0.23 $ 0.24 $ 0.35 $ 0.37
125
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Changes in Investments in Non-Controlled Affiliates (1)
Year Ended December 31, 2019
Security Dividends orInterest (2) Fair Value at
December 31, 2018 Net realized gain
or loss
Net increase ordecrease inunrealized
appreciation ordepreciation Acquisitions (3) Dispositions (4)
Fair Value at December 31,
2019
AGY Holding Corp., Common Stock $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ —
AGY Holding Corp., Senior Secured 2nd Lien Notes, 11%, due11/15/20 545,334 9,777,740 — (6,752,077) 682,765 — 3,708,428
AGY Holding Corp., Senior Secured Delayed Draw Term Loan, 12%,due 9/15/20 128,644 1,049,147 — — 64,973 — 1,114,120
AGY Holding Corp., Senior Secured Term Loan, 12%, due 9/15/20 597,096 4,869,577 — — 301,574 — 5,171,151
Edmentum Ultimate Holdings, LLC, Class A Common Units — — — 1,433,968 — — 1,433,968
Edmentum Ultimate Holdings, LLC, Junior PIK Notes, 10%, due 6/9/20 1,864,600 11,152,078 — 4,621,493 1,835,705 — 17,609,276
Edmentum Ultimate Holdings, LLC, Senior PIK Notes, 8.5%, due6/9/20 304,833 3,375,453 — — 300,435 — 3,675,888
Edmentum Ultimate Holdings, LLC, Warrants to Purchase Class ACommon Units — — — 7,084,470 — — 7,084,470
Edmentum, Inc., Junior Revolving Facility, 5%, due 6/9/20 217,659 1,153,076 — — 6,149,380 (2,066,478) 5,235,978
Edmentum, Inc., Senior Secured 1st Lien Term Loan B, 8.5%, due6/9/21 1,327,742 6,187,478 — 262,555 4,289,990 — 10,740,023
Edmentum, Inc., Senior Secured 2nd Lien Term Loan, 7% PIK, due12/8/21 569,374 7,719,069 — — 562,592 — 8,281,661
Edmentum, Inc., Senior Unsecured Promissory Note, 10%, due 9/30/19 194,184 — — — 3,644,068 (3,644,068) —
Educationcity Limited (Edmentum), Senior Unsecured PromissoryNote, 10%, due 9/30/19 77,673 — — — 1,457,627 (1,457,627) —
EPMC HoldCo, LLC, Membership Units — 26,254 43,320 (26,254) — (43,320) —
Green Biologics, Inc., Common Stock — 3,670,777 (20,524,650) 14,851,816 2,006,277 (4,220) —
Iracore International Holdings, Inc., Senior Secured 1st Lien TermLoan, LIBOR + 9%, 1% LIBOR Floor, due 4/13/21 220,506 1,900,733 — — — (264,830) 1,635,903
Iracore Investments Holdings, Inc., Class A Common Stock — 1,375,243 — 1,101,638 — — 2,476,881
KAGY Holding Company, Inc., Series A Preferred Stock — 969,224 — (969,224) — — —
NEG Holdings, LLC (CORE Entertainment, Inc.), Senior Secured 1stLien Term Loan, LIBOR + 8% PIK, 1% LIBOR Floor, due 10/17/22
101,051 1,574,099 — — 84,863 (1,658,962) —
NEG Parent, LLC (CORE Entertainment, Inc.), Class A Units — 6,543,086 — 382,762 — — 6,925,848
NEG Parent, LLC (CORE Entertainment, Inc.), Class A Warrants toPurchase Class A Units — 364,299 — 27,107 — — 391,406
NEG Parent, LLC (CORE Entertainment, Inc.), Class B Warrants toPurchase Class A Units — 367,914 — 27,376 — — 395,290
NEG Parent, LLC (CORE Entertainment, Inc.), Litigation Trust Units — 1,118,110 809,444 (1,118,110) — (809,444) —
Total $ 6,148,696 $ 63,193,357 $ (19,671,886) $ 20,927,520 $ 21,380,249 $ (9,948,949) $ 75,880,291
______________Notes to Consolidated Schedule of Changes in Investments in Non-Controlled Affiliates: (1) The issuers of the securities listed on this schedule are considered non-controlled affiliates under the Investment Company Act of 1940 due to the ownership by the
Company of 5% to 25% of the issuers' voting securities.(2) Also includes fee and lease income as applicable.(3) Acquisitions include new purchases, PIK income and amortization of original issue and market discounts.(4) Dispositions include decreases in the cost basis from sales, paydowns, mortgage amortizations and aircraft depreciation.
126
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Changes in Investments in Controlled Affiliates (1)
Year Ended December 31, 2019
Security Dividends orInterest (2) Fair Value at
December 31, 2018 Net realized gain or
loss
Net increase ordecrease inunrealized
appreciation ordepreciation Acquisitions (3) Dispositions (4)
Fair Value at December 31,
2019
36th Street Capital Partners Holdings, LLC, Membership Units $ 2,392,274 $ 18,931,734 $ — $ 6,296,773 $ 6,454,352 $ — $ 31,682,859
36th Street Capital Partners Holdings, LLC, Senior Note, 12%, due11/1/20 3,874,967 27,839,419 — — 12,995,000 — 40,834,419
Anacomp, Inc., Class A Common Stock — 1,418,746 — (251,106) — — 1,167,640
Conergy Asia & ME Pte. Ltd., 1st Lien Term Loan, 10%, due5/26/20 177,381 1,773,807 — (566,022) — — 1,207,785
Conergy Asia Holdings Limited, Class B Shares — — — — — — —
Conergy Asia Holdings Limited, Ordinary Shares — — — — — — —
Conventional Lending TCP Holdings, LLC, Membership Units 981,790 — — — 14,269,948 — 14,269,948
Kawa Solar Holdings Limited, Bank Guarantee Credit Facility, 0%,due 5/26/20 — 11,682,923 — (816,391) — (7,577,094) 3,289,438
Kawa Solar Holdings Limited, Ordinary Shares — — — (578,646) — 578,646 —
Kawa Solar Holdings Limited, Revolving Credit Facility, 0%, due5/26/20 — 2,922,269 — (134,800) — (578,645) 2,208,824
Kawa Solar Holdings Limited, Series B Preferred Shares — — — — — — —
United N659UA-767, LLC (Aircraft Trust Holding Company) 159,808 2,826,708 — (164,500) — (361,842) 2,300,366
United N661UA-767, LLC (Aircraft Trust Holding Company) 138,019 2,896,083 — (165,139) — (383,630) 2,347,314
Total $ 7,724,239 $ 70,291,689 $ — $ 3,620,169 $ 33,719,300 $ (8,322,565) $ 99,308,593
______________Notes to Consolidated Schedule of Changes in Investments in Controlled Affiliates: (1) The issuers of the securities listed on this schedule are considered controlled affiliates under the Investment Company Act of 1940 due to the ownership by the Company
of more than 25% of the issuers' voting securities.(2) Also includes fee and lease income as applicable.(3) Acquisitions include new purchases, PIK income and amortization of original issue and market discounts.(4) Dispositions include decreases in the cost basis from sales, paydowns, mortgage amortizations and aircraft depreciation.
127
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Changes in Investments in Non-Controlled Affiliates(1)
Year Ended December 31, 2018
Security Dividends orInterest (2) Fair Value at
December 31, 2017 Net realized gain
or loss
Net increase ordecrease inunrealized
appreciation ordepreciation Acquisitions (3) Dispositions (4)
Fair Value at December 31,
2018
AGY Holding Corp., Common Stock $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ —
AGY Holding Corp., Senior Secured 2nd Lien Notes, 11%, due11/15/20 1,054,681 9,268,000 — — 509,740 — 9,777,740
AGY Holding Corp., Senior Secured Delayed Draw Term Loan,12%, due 5/18/20 127,646 1,049,147 — — — — 1,049,147
AGY Holding Corp., Senior Secured Term Loan, 12%, due 5/18/20 592,465 4,869,577 — — — — 4,869,577
Edmentum Ultimate Holdings, LLC, Class A Common Units — — — — — — —
Edmentum Ultimate Holdings, LLC, Junior PIK Notes, 10%, due6/9/20 1,686,990 10,377,830 — (886,600) 1,660,848 — 11,152,078
Edmentum Ultimate Holdings, LLC, Senior PIK Notes, 8.5%, due6/9/20 279,918 3,099,573 — — 275,880 — 3,375,453
Edmentum Ultimate Holdings, LLC, Warrants to Purchase Class ACommon Units — — — — — — —
Edmentum, Inc., Junior Revolving Facility, 5%, due 6/9/20 129,029 2,189,584 — 2 3,740,309 (4,776,819) 1,153,076
Edmentum, Inc., Senior Secured 1st Lien Term Loan B, 8.5%, due6/9/21 332,418 — — 910,888 5,293,696 (17,106) 6,187,478
Edmentum, Inc., Senior Secured 2nd Lien Term Loan, 7% PIK, due12/8/21 722,259 — — 8 7,719,061 — 7,719,069
EPMC HoldCo, LLC, Membership Units — 210,035 196,908 (183,781) — (196,908) 26,254
Globecomm Systems, Inc., Senior Secured 1st Lien IncrementalTerm Loan, LIBOR + 7.625%, 1.25% LIBOR Floor, due 12/11/21
14,923 175,824 3,917 (4,221) 14,155 (189,675) —
Globecomm Systems, Inc., Senior Secured 1st Tranche Term Loan,LIBOR + 5.5%, 1.25% LIBOR Floor, due 12/11/21 547,010 7,200,000 — — 420,234 (7,620,234) —
Globecomm Systems, Inc., Senior Secured 2nd Tranche Term Loan,LIBOR + 8%, 1.25% LIBOR Floor, due 12/11/21 244,408 2,400,000 — — 187,800 (2,587,800) —
Globecomm Systems, Inc., Senior Secured 3rd Tranche Term Loan,12.5% PIK, due 12/11/21 158,129 1,248,000 (1,117,442) — 122,538 (253,096) —
Globecomm Systems, Inc., Senior Secured 4th Tranche Term Loan,12.5% PIK, due 12/11/21 205,845 2,256,000 (2,477,512) — 221,512 — —
Globecomm Systems, Inc., Senior Secured Incremental 1st TrancheTerm Loan, LIBOR + 5.5%, 1.25% LIBOR Floor, due 12/11/21 9,757 — — — 244,778 (244,778) —
Green Biologics, Inc., Common Stock — — — (14,851,816) 18,522,593 — 3,670,777
HCT Acquisition, LLC (Globecomm), Membership Units — 531,575 (531,575) — — — —
Iracore International Holdings, Inc., Senior Secured 1st Lien TermLoan, LIBOR + 9%, 1% LIBOR Floor, due 4/13/21 213,331 1,900,733 — — — — 1,900,733
Iracore Investments Holdings, Inc., Class A Common Stock — 3,458,749 — (2,083,506) — — 1,375,243
KAGY Holding Company, Inc., Series A Preferred Stock — 11,034,519 — (10,065,295) — — 969,224
NEG Holdings, LLC (CORE Entertainment, Inc.), Senior Secured 1stLien Term Loan, LIBOR + 8% PIK, 1% LIBOR Floor, due10/17/22
118,111
1,584,734
—
—
118,889
(129,524)
1,574,099
NEG Parent, LLC (CORE Entertainment, Inc.), Class A Units — 4,345,010 — 2,198,076 — — 6,543,086
NEG Parent, LLC (CORE Entertainment, Inc.), Class A Warrants toPurchase Class A Units — 111,875 — 252,424 — — 364,299
NEG Parent, LLC (CORE Entertainment, Inc.), Class B Warrants toPurchase Class A Units — 112,985 — 254,929 — — 367,914
NEG Parent, LLC (CORE Entertainment, Inc.), Litigation Trust Units — 1,201,138 — (83,028) — — 1,118,110
RM Holdco, LLC (Real Mex), Equity Participation — — — — — — —
RM Holdco, LLC (Real Mex), Membership Units 31,486 — (2,010,777) 2,010,777 — — —
RM OpCo, LLC (Real Mex), Convertible 2nd Lien Term LoanTranche B-1, 8.5%, due 3/30/18 77,143 862,509 (2,210,269) 1,255,117 92,643 — —
RM OpCo, LLC (Real Mex), Senior Convertible 2nd Lien TermLoan B, 8.5%, due 3/30/18 264,147 7,250,973 (7,568,193) — 317,220 — —
RM OpCo, LLC (Real Mex), Senior Secured 1st Lien Term LoanTranche A, 7%, due 3/30/18 297,194 4,899,257 (150,583) (283,386) 297,423 (4,762,711) —
RM OpCo, LLC (Real Mex), Senior Secured 1st Out Term LoanTranche A, 7%, due 3/30/18 101,757 — 7,551 (38,950) 1,461,263 (1,429,864) —
RM OpCo, LLC (Real Mex), Senior Secured 2nd Lien Term LoanTranche B, 8.5%, due 3/30/18 — — (10,398,622) 10,398,622 — — —
RM OpCo, LLC (Real Mex), Senior Secured 2nd Lien Term LoanTranche B-1, 8.5%, due 3/30/18 121,054 1,353,457 (3,452,951) 1,954,117 145,377 — —
RM OpCo, LLC (Real Mex), Senior Secured Super Priority Debtor-in-Possession Term Loan, 8.5%, due 12/15/18 18,337 — 5,251 — 715,249 (720,500) —
Total $ 7,348,038 $ 82,991,084 $ (29,704,297) $ (9,245,623) $ 42,081,208 $ (22,929,015) $ 63,193,357
______________Notes to Consolidated Schedule of Changes in Investments in Non-Controlled Affiliates: (1) The issuers of the securities listed on this schedule are considered non-controlled affiliates under the Investment Company Act of 1940 due to the ownership by the Company of 5% to
25% of the issuers' voting securities.(2) Also includes fee and lease income as applicable.(3) Acquisitions include new purchases, PIK income and amortization of original issue and market discounts.
(4) Dispositions include decreases in the cost basis from sales, paydowns, mortgage amortizations and aircraft depreciation.
128
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Changes in Investments in Controlled Affiliates(1)
Year Ended December 31, 2018
Security Dividends orInterest (2) Fair Value at
December 31, 2017 Net realized gain or
loss
Net increase ordecrease inunrealized
appreciation ordepreciation Acquisitions (3) Dispositions (4)
Fair Value at December 31,
2018
36th Street Capital Partners Holdings, LLC, Membership Units $ 750,715 $ 12,576,276 $ — $ (443,614) $ 7,049,072 $ (250,000) $ 18,931,734
36th Street Capital Partners Holdings, LLC, Senior Note, 12%, due11/1/20 3,537,166 30,827,391 — — 1,155,002 (4,142,974) 27,839,419
Anacomp, Inc., Class A Common Stock — 1,418,746 — — — — 1,418,746
Conergy Asia & ME Pte. Ltd., 1st Lien Term Loan, 10%, due5/26/20 112,355 666,667 — — 1,107,140 — 1,773,807
Conergy Asia Holdings Limited, Class B Shares — 1,027,700 — (1,027,700) — — —
Conergy Asia Holdings Limited, Ordinary Shares — 193,847 — (193,847) — — —
Kawa Solar Holdings Limited, Bank Guarantee Credit Facility, 0%PIK, due 5/26/20 645,470 16,233,431 — (2,473,048) (290,793) (1,786,667) 11,682,923
Kawa Solar Holdings Limited, Ordinary Shares — — — — — — —
Kawa Solar Holdings Limited, Revolving Credit Facility, 0%, due5/26/20 — 7,048,850 — (5,746,581) 1,620,000 — 2,922,269
Kawa Solar Holdings Limited, Series B Preferred Shares — — — — — — —
United N659UA-767, LLC (Aircraft Trust Holding Company) 159,808 3,161,798 — 26,751 — (361,841) 2,826,708
United N661UA-767, LLC (Aircraft Trust Holding Company) 138,019 3,228,449 — 51,265 — (383,631) 2,896,083
Total $ 5,343,533 $ 76,383,155 $ — $ (9,806,774) $ 10,640,421 $ (6,925,113) $ 70,291,689
______________Notes to Consolidated Schedule of Changes in Investments in Controlled Affiliates: (1) The issuers of the securities listed on this schedule are considered controlled affiliates under the Investment Company Act of 1940 due to the ownership by the Company of more than
25% of the issuers' voting securities.(2) Also includes fee and lease income as applicable.(3) Acquisitions include new purchases, PIK income and amortization of original issue and market discounts.(4) Dispositions include decreases in the cost basis from sales, paydowns, mortgage amortizations and aircraft depreciation.
129
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Restricted Securities of Unaffiliated Issuers
December 31, 2019
Investment Acquisition DateActifio, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series G Preferred Stock 5/5/17Adesto Technologies Corporation, Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 5/8/18Avanti Communications Group, PLC (144A), Senior New Money Initial Note, 9% PIK, due 10/1/22 1/26/17Avanti Communications Group, PLC (144A), Senior Second-Priority PIK Toggle Note, 9%, due 10/1/22 1/26/17Domo, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 12/5/17Envigo RMS Holding Corp., Common Stock 6/3/19Fidelis (SVC) LLC, Series C Preferred Units 12/31/19FinancialForce.com, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series C Preferred Stock 1/30/19Findly Talent, LLC, Class A Membership Units 1/1/14Foursquare Labs, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series E Preferred Stock 5/4/17GACP I, LP (Great American Capital), Membership Units 10/1/15GACP II, LP (Great American Capital), Membership Units 1/12/18GlassPoint Solar, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series C-1 Preferred Stock 2/7/17GlassPoint Solar, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series D Preferred Stock 3/16/18InMobi, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 8/22/17InMobi, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series E Preferred Stock (Strike Price $20.01) 9/18/15InMobi, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series E Preferred Stock (Strike Price $28.58) 10/1/18Nanosys, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Preferred Stock 3/29/16Quora, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series D Preferred Stock 4/12/19ResearchGate Corporation., Warrants to Purchase Series D Preferred Stock 11/7/19Shop Holding, LLC (Connexity), Class A Units 6/2/11SnapLogic, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series Preferred Stock 3/20/18Soraa, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 8/29/14SoundCloud, Ltd., Warrants to Purchase Preferred Stock 4/30/15STG-Fairway Holdings, LLC (First Advantage), Class A Units 12/30/10Tradeshift, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series D Preferred Stock 3/9/17Utilidata, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Preferred Stock 12/22/15V Telecom Investment S.C.A. (Vivacom), Common Shares 11/9/12
130
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Consolidated Schedule of Restricted Securities of Unaffiliated Issuers
December 31, 2018
Investment Acquisition DateActifio, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series G Preferred Stock 5/5/17Adesto Technologies Corporation, Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 5/8/18Avanti Communications Group, PLC (144A), Senior New Money Initial Note, 9%, due 10/1/22 1/26/17Avanti Communications Group, PLC (144A), Senior Second-Priority PIK Toggle Note, 9%, due 10/1/22 1/26/17CFG Investments Limited (Caribbean Financial Group), Subordinated Class B Notes, 9.42%, due 11/15/26 11/7/17Domo, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 12/5/17Fidelis Topco LP, Warrants to Purchase Series A Preferred Units 7/20/18Fidelis Topco LP, Warrants to Purchase Series B Preferred Units 7/20/18Findly Talent, LLC, Class A Membership Units 1/1/14Foursquare Labs, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series E Preferred Stock 5/4/17Fuse Media, LLC, Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 8/3/12GACP I, LP (Great American Capital), Membership Units 10/1/15GACP II, LP (Great American Capital), Membership Units 1/12/18GlassPoint Solar, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series C-1 Preferred Stock 2/7/17GlassPoint Solar, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series D Preferred Stock 3/16/18InMobi, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 8/22/17InMobi, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series E Preferred Stock (Strike Price $20.01) 9/18/15InMobi, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series E Preferred Stock (Strike Price $28.58) 10/1/18Lions Holdings, Inc., (BPA), Series A Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 7/14/17Lions Holdings, Inc., (BPA), Series B Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 7/14/17Nanosys, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Preferred Stock 3/29/16Shop Holding, LLC (Connexity), Class A Units 6/2/11SnapLogic, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series Preferred Stock 3/20/18Soraa, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Common Stock 8/29/14SoundCloud, Ltd., Warrants to Purchase Preferred Stock 4/30/15STG-Fairway Holdings, LLC (First Advantage), Class A Units 12/30/10Tradeshift, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Series D Preferred Stock 3/9/17Utilidata, Inc., Warrants to Purchase Preferred Stock 12/22/15V Telecom Investment S.C.A. (Vivacom), Common Shares 11/9/12
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Item 9. Changes in Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of December 31, 2019 (the end of the period covered by this report), we, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated theeffectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the 1934 Act). Based on that evaluation, ourmanagement, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective and providedreasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our periodic SEC filings is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periodsspecified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officerand Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. However, in evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures,management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving thedesired control objectives, and management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of such possible controls andprocedures.
(b) Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, and for performing an assessment of theeffectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under thesupervision of, our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by our board of directors,management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements forexternal purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and proceduresthat (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of assets of the company; (ii)provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally acceptedaccounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regardingprevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements. Because ofits inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effectivecan provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Management performed an assessment of the effectivenessof our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019 based upon the criteria set forth in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued bythe Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on our assessment, management determined that our internal control overfinancial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2019.
(c) Attestation Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Form
Our independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued an attestation report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internalcontrol over financial reporting which is set forth under the heading “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” on page 76.
(d) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during our mostrecently completed fiscal quarter, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B: Other Information.
132
On February 25, 2020, we entered into a non-exclusive, royalty-free license agreement (the “License Agreement”) with the BlackRock, Inc., the parentcompany of our Advisor, pursuant to which BlackRock, Inc. has agreed to grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use the name “BlackRock.” The LicenseAgreement has an initial term of one year and will automatically be renewed for successive one-year terms unless terminated in accordance with the terms of theLicense Agreement.
PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
The information required by this item is contained in the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for its 2020 Annual Stockholders Meeting to be filed with theSecurities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2019 and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information required by this item is contained in the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for its 2020 Annual Stockholders Meeting to be filed with theSecurities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2019 and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The information required by this item is contained in the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for its 2020 Annual Stockholders Meeting to be filed with theSecurities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2019 and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
The information required by this item is contained in the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for its 2020 Annual Stockholders Meeting to be filed with theSecurities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2019 and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information required by this item is contained in the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for its 2020 Annual Stockholders Meeting to be filed with theSecurities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2019 and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 15. Exhibits and Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules
a. Documents Filed as Part of this Report
The following reports and consolidated financial statements are set forth in Item 8:
Page
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 76Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 79Consolidated Schedule of Investments as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 80Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 99Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 100Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 101Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 102Consolidated Schedules of Changes in Investments in Affiliates as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 127Consolidated Schedules of Restricted Securities of Unaffiliated Issuers as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 131
b. Exhibits
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The following exhibits are filed as part of this report or hereby incorporated by reference to exhibits previously filed with the SEC:
Number Description3.1 Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant (1)3.2 Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant (2)3.3 Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Registrant (3)4.1
Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 23, 2019, by and between the Registrant and U.S. Bank National Association, as the Trustee(4)
4.2 Form of Global Note of 3.900% Notes due 2024 (included in Exhibit 4.1)4.3 Indenture, dated as of June 17, 2014, by and between the Registrant and U.S. Bank National Association, as the Trustee(12)4.4 Form of Global Note of 5.25% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2019 (included as part of Exhibit 10.8)(12)4.5 Indenture, dated as of September 6, 2016, by and between the Registrant and U.S. Bank National Association, as the Trustee(13)4.6 Form of Global Note of 4.625% Convertible Senior Notes due 2022 (included as part of Exhibit 10.10) (13)4.7 Indenture, dated as of August 11, 2017, by and between the Registrant and U.S. Bank National Association, as the Trustee(14)4.8 First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 11, 2017, by and between the Registrant and U.S. Bank National Association, as the Trustee(15)4.9 Form of Global Note of 4.125% Notes Due 2022 (included as part of Exhibit 10.13)(15)4.10 Form of Global Note of 4.125% Notes Due 2022(16)10.1 Form of Investment Management Agreement By and Between Registrant and Tennenbaum Capital Partners, LLC(5)10.2
Form of Amended and Restated Investment Management Agreement By and Between Special Value Continuation Partners, LP and TennenbaumCapital Partners, LLC(6)
10.3 Amended and Restated Investment Management Agreement By and Between Registrant and Tennenbaum Capital Partners, LLC(7)10.4 Form of Administration Agreement of the Registrant(8)10.5 Custodial Agreement dated as of July 31, 2006(9)10.6 Form of Transfer Agency and Registrar Services Agreement(10)10.7 Form of License Agreement(11)10.16 Second Amended and Restated Partnership Agreement of Special Value Continuation Partners, LP dated January 29, 2018(17)10.17 Credit Agreement dated as of February 26, 2018(18)10.18 Guaranty, Pledge and Security Agreement dated as of February 26, 2018(19)10.19 Form of License Agreement*11 Computation of Per Share Earnings (included in the notes to the financial statements contained in this report)12 Computation of Ratios (included in the notes to the financial statements contained in this report)14.1 Code of Ethics and Business Conduct*21.1 Subsidiaries of the Registrant*31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934*31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934*32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U. S. C.1350)*
______________* Filed herewith.
134
(1) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(2) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933 (File No. 333-172669), on Form N-2,filed on May 13, 2011
(2) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K, filed on August 2, 2018
(3) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K, filed on August 2, 2018
(4) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K, filed on August 23, 2019
(5) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K, filed on August 2, 2018
(6) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit (k)(8) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933 (File No. 333-172669), on Form N-2,filed on May 13, 2011.
(7) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K, filed on February 12, 2019
(8) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit (k)(1) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933 (File No. 333-172669), on Form N-2,filed on May 13, 2011.
(9) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-12G of Special Value Continuation Partners, LP (File No. 000-54393), filed May 6, 2011.
(10) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit (k)(2) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933 (File No. 333-172669), on Form N-2,filed on March 5, 2012
(11) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit (k)(3) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933 (File No. 333-172669), on Form N-2,filed on March 5, 2012.
(12) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K filed on June 17, 2014.
(13) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K filed on September 6, 2016.
(14) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(1) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933(File No. 333-216716), on Form N-2, filed on August 11, 2017.
(15) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(4) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registrant's Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933(File No. 333-216716), on Form N-2, filed on August 11, 2017.
(16) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(6) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933(File No. 333-216716), on Form N-2, filed on November 3, 2017.
(17) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 to Special Value Continuation Partner, LP’s Form 8-K filed on January 30, 2018.
(18) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K filed on February 27, 2018.
(19) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K filed on February 27, 2018.
135
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by theundersigned, there unto duly authorized.
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
By: /s/ Howard M. Levkowitz Howard M. Levkowitz Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and inthe capacity and on the dates indicated.
Date Signature TitleFebruary 26, 2020 /s/ Howard M. Levkowitz Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of Howard M. Levkowitz the Board and Director (Principal Executive Officer)
February 26, 2020 /s/ Kathleen A. Corbet Director Kathleen A. Corbet
February 26, 2020 /s/ Eric J. Draut Director Eric J. Draut
February 26, 2020 /s/ M. Freddie Reiss Director M. Freddie Reiss
February 26, 2020 /s/ Peter E. Schwab Director Peter E. Schwab
February 26, 2020 /s/ Karyn L. Williams Director
Karyn L. Williams
February 26, 2020 /s/ Brian F. Wruble Director Brian F. Wruble
February 26, 2020 /s/ Rajneesh Vig President and Director Rajneesh Vig
February 26, 2020 /s/ Paul L. Davis Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) Paul L. Davis
136
LICENSE AGREEMENT
This License Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into effective as of February 25, 2020 (“Effective Date”) between, on theone hand, BlackRock, Inc. (“Licensor”), a Delaware limited liability company, and, on the other, BlackRock TCP Capital Corp., aDelaware corporation (“Licensee”), as follows:
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Licensor is a global asset manager that has acquired through diligent effort over many years a premierreputation within the financial services and investment management community for excellence in the fields of investing, investmentmanagement, and the financial and operational management of companies in which Licensor has made or supervised investments;
WHEREAS, Licensee acknowledges the fame and reputation of Licensor, and the goodwill associated with the trade nameand service mark BlackRock which is owned by Licensor and used in commerce by Licensor in association with its business andwith the services it provides to investors, companies, and others; and,
WHEREAS, subject to the terms set forth below, Licensee wishes to receive a license, and Licensor wishes to grant Licenseea license, to use the BlackRock mark in association with the commercial activities of Licensee, as more fully defined below;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth below, and for other good andvaluable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as follow:
1. License
Subject to and conditioned upon Licensee’s compliance with all the terms of this Agreement, Licensor grants to Licensee anonexclusive, personal, revocable, worldwide nontransferable license, without the right to delegate or sub-license, to (i) use the tradename BlackRock as a component of the trade name of Licensee in the manner depicted in Exhibit A, and (ii) to use the service markBlackRock as a component of the permitted variations of this service mark described in Exhibit A in association with the services ofLicensee. All rights not expressly granted to Licensee are reserved to Licensor. The trade name and service mark BlackRock, alongwith the permitted variations thereof licensed hereunder, are hereinafter referred to collectively as the “Marks” and each individuallyas a “Mark.”2. Ownership and Use of the Marks
2.1 Licensee stipulates and agrees that, subject only to the license granted herein, all rights, title and interests in and to the
Marks is and shall be owned exclusively by Licensor. Licensee shall not take any action inconsistent with Licensor’s ownership ofthe Marks, and covenants that it, acting alone or together with others, shall not initiate any proceeding in any
1
forum challenging the existence, validity, or enforceability of the Marks, or any future variation of the Marks adopted by Licensor.All goodwill and proprietary rights derived from the use by Licensee of the Marks shall inure to Licensor’s benefit. At the request,and expense, of Licensor, Licensee shall provide all cooperation requested by Licensor in connection with any effort by Licensor toestablish, perfect, or defend the Marks, or any Mark, or Licensor’s rights therein, including, without limitation, providing exemplarsand samples of Licensee’s use of the Mark, executing commercially reasonable forms of consent, assignment or release, andproviding good faith testimony by affidavit, declaration, deposition or any other means.
2.2 Licensee stipulates and agree that the Marks embody and symbolize the goodwill of Licensor, and are associated with thehighest quality services in the fields of investment, investment management, financial services, and the financing and managementof operating businesses. All activities of Licensee carried out under the Mark used as a trade name, and all products and servicesprovided under the Marks in commerce by Licensee, shall be of a nature and quality consistent with the high quality and reputationof Licensor and of the Marks, as reasonably determined by Licensor. At Licensor’s request, Licensee shall provide all samples, andpermit all inspections and audits reasonably determined by Licensor to be necessary to assure and confirm Licensee’s compliancewith this quality standard. All uses of any Mark by Licensee shall be made consistent with such reasonable use and style guidelinesas are provided by Licensor from time to time. Without limitation, Licensee shall not alter, modify, or otherwise mutilate any Mark,and shall not create or develop any variation or new version of the Marks. Except as otherwise permitted by Licensor, Licensee shalldesignate each service mark use of a Mark with the appropriate proprietary designation, such as, as appropriate to each mark, SM, or® and shall also provide the following notice, with the prominence customarily given to such notices in the specific context of use:
[“BlackRock, BlackRock TCP Capital, and the BlackRock TCP Capital logo mark are the proprietary names and marks ofBlackRock, Inc., an independently operated entity, and used with permission.”]
In all agreements, publications, and materials in which Licensee uses the Marks as a trade name or as a component of its trade name,Licensee shall expressly disclose, in writing, that Licensee is an independently operated entity, and that, in dealing with Licensee,third parties shall have no recourse of any kind against Licensor.
2.3 Licensee acknowledges that proper use of the Marks in compliance with this Agreement is of benefit to Licensorthrough the increased fame and reputation that will inure to Licensor through Licensee’s appropriate activities. Hence, Licenseecovenants that, subject to the terms of this agreement and only for so long as this License Agreement remains in effect, it may usethe Marks as a component of its trade names, and in connection with all services of Licensee that are of an appropriate nature andquality.
2.4 Licensee represents, warrants and covenants that: (i) they have the authority to enter into this Agreement and performall obligations under and exercise all rights in compliance with, this Agreement; (ii) all uses of Marks by Licensee shall be made incompliance with law and regulation, without breach of any contractual obligation or duty imposed by law (such as tort duties); and(iii) in its use of the Marks, Licensee shall not associate the Mark with any product,
2
service, or activity that violates, infringes, or otherwise misappropriates any proprietary right or interest of any third party other thanalleged rights in the Marks.
3. Term and Termination
3.1 The term of this Agreement shall be for a period of one (1) year beginning on the Effective Date. Unless terminatedpursuant to its terms, this Agreement shall automatically renew for successive one-year terms.
3.2 Notwithstanding the above, the license grant set forth herein to Licensee, or, at Licensor’s discretion, this entireAgreement, may be terminated by Licensor at its sole discretion for any reason or no reason at all, such termination to be effectivesixty (60) days following the receipt of written notice thereof from Licensor by Licensee. Only After the expiration of the first one(1) year term, Licensee may terminate this Agreement at its sole discretion for any reason or no reason at all, such termination to beeffective sixty (60) days following the receipt of written notice thereof from Licensee by Licensor. In addition, this Agreement maybe terminated by any party upon a material breach by the other party upon thirty (30) days prior written notice to the other party,provided that termination may be avoided if such breach is cured to the satisfaction of the non-breaching party within the thirty (30)days. Finally, Licensor may terminate this agreement upon Licensor’s determination that Licensee is not in compliance with Section2 above, and Licensor determines, at its sole discretion, that Licensee remains non-compliant fifteen (15) days after receiving writtennotice thereof from Licensor.
3.3 Licensee shall cease and desist from all use of any Mark immediately upon the termination or expiration of thisAgreement for any reason. Termination or expiration of this Agreement shall neither release nor discharge any party from anyobligation, debt or liability which shall have previously accrued and which remains to be performed upon the date of termination norprevent a party from pursuing any other remedies at law or in equity.
4. Notices
All notices required by this Agreement shall be deemed given when in writing and delivered personally or deposited in theUnited States mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, addressed to the other party at the address set forth below or on suchother address as the party may designate in writing in accordance with this Section:
If to Licensor: If to Licensee:
BlackRock, Inc.55 East 52nd StreetNew York, New York 10055Attn: General Counsel
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.2951 28th Street, Suite 1000Santa Monica, California 90405Attn: Elizabeth Greenwood, CCO
Notices given by mail shall be deemed received two (2) business days after mailing.
5. General Provisions
This Agreement has been executed and delivered in, and shall be construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of theState of California. This Agreement shall be binding upon
3
and shall inure to the benefit of Licensor and its successors and assigns. Except as expressly permitted in advance in writing byLicensor, Licensee, acting alone or together with others, shall not assign or otherwise transfer any rights granted to it under thisAgreement for any reason, nor permit any other person (except Special Value Continuation Partners, LP) to enjoy such rightsthrough sublicensing, delegation, subcontracting, agency relationship or other means. Except as aforesaid, no provision of thisAgreement is intended, nor shall any provision of this Agreement be deemed or interpreted, to create any benefit to or for any personnot a party to this Agreement. This Agreement may be amended only by a written instrument signed by the authorizedrepresentatives of the parties. This Agreement represents the entire Agreement of the parties regarding Licensee’s right to exploitany Mark and supersedes any previous agreements between the parties relating to the same subject matter. No waiver of anyprovision of this Agreement shall be effective against either party unless it is in writing and signed by the party granting the waiver.The failure to exercise any right shall not operate as waiver of such right. No delay or failure to require performance of any provisionof this Agreement shall constitute a waiver of that provision as to that or any other instance. Licensee stipulates and agrees that anybreach by either of them of any provision of Section 2, or use of the Marks outside of the scope of the grant set forth in Section 1,will cause Licensor irreparable harm for which monetary damages will not be an adequate remedy. Therefore, Licensee stipulatesthat, in addition to all such other remedies to which Licensor may be entitled at law or in equity, Licensor shall be entitled to receivetemporary, preliminary, and permanent injunctive relief with regard to any such breach of Sections 2 or use of the Marks outside thescope of Section 1 by Licensee.
[Signature Page Follows]
4
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement effective as of the Effective Date. By their signaturesbelow, each of the parties represents that they have the authority to execute this Agreement and do hereby bind the party on whosebehalf their execution is made.
“Licensor”
BlackRock, Inc.
“Licensee”
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
By:____________________________
Print: ____________________________
Its: ______________________________
Date:____________________________
By:____________________________
Print: ____________________________
Its: ______________________________
Date:____________________________
5
EXHIBIT ABlackRock Logo Use Policy
In addition to conforming with such style and usage guidelines as are set forth in the Agreement or as Licensor may provideLicensee from time to time pursuant to section 2.2 of the Agreement, all uses of the Mark shall conform to the following:
I. Trade Name Uses.
All uses of the Marks as a component of the trade names of Licensee shall conform to the following, and no other trade name usesare permitted:
1. BlackRock TCP Capital Corp. and BlackRock TCP Capital, where “BlackRock” is always depicted with the B and the R incapital letters, without intervening punctuation, and as part of a single continuous phrase with the words "TCP Capital," which shallalways appear immediately following "BlackRock" in the same font size, font color, and font style with "BlackRock".
II. Service Mark Uses.
All uses of the Marks as a service mark shall conform to the following:
1. The permitted service marks are the word mark BlackRock TCP Capital, and the design variation of the BlackRock TCP Capitalmark that will be provided by Licensor to Licensee.
2. In the service marks, the letters "BlackRock" shall not be used as a service mark apart from the term "TCP Capital."
3. Except as otherwise permitted by Licensor, the service mark shall be designated with an SM designation in all prominent uses.
III. Amendment.
This Exhibit A is in addition to, and without limitation, of Licensor's rights and privileges under the Agreement.
6
Exhibit 21.1
Subsidiaries of BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
Name Jurisdiction
Special Value Continuation Partners LLC DelawareTCPC Funding I, LLC DelawareTCPC SBIC, LP Delaware
Exhibit 31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officerof Periodic Report Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a)
I, Howard M. Levkowitz, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make thestatements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects thefinancial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined inExchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for theregistrant and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensurethat material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly duringthe period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision,to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance withgenerally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectivenessof the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscalquarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’sinternal control over financial reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to theregistrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likelyto adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control overfinancial reporting.
Date: February 26, 2020
/s/ Howard M. LevkowitzHoward M. LevkowitzChief Executive Officer(Principal Executive Officer)
Exhibit 31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officerof Periodic Report Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a)
I, Paul L. Davis, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make thestatements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects thefinancial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined inExchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for theregistrant and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensurethat material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly duringthe period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision,to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance withgenerally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectivenessof the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscalquarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’sinternal control over financial reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to theregistrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likelyto adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control overfinancial reporting.
Date: February 26, 2020
/s/ Paul L. DavisPaul L. DavisChief Financial Officer(Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial OfficerPursuant to
18 U.S.C. Section 1350
In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of BlackRock TCP Capital Corp. (the “Company”) for the year ended December 31, 2019 as filed with theSecurities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), Howard M. Levkowitz, as Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and Paul L. Davis, asChief Financial Officer of the Company, each hereby certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Actof 2002, that, to the best of his knowledge:
1. The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
2. The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
Date: February 26, 2020
/s/ Howard M. LevkowitzHoward M. LevkowitzChief Executive Officer(Principal Executive Officer)
Date: February 26, 2020
/s/ Paul L. DavisPaul L. DavisChief Financial Officer(Principal Financial Officer)
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906, or other document authenticating, acknowledging, or otherwise adopting the signature thatappears in typed form within the electronic version of this written statement required by Section 906, has been provided to BlackRock TCP Capital Corp. and willbe retained by BlackRock TCP Capital Corp. and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.